A multitalented math and science teacher who holds degrees in both fields, Juleen Jenkins-Whall’s subject- matter knowledge is rock solid. In fact, she was designated as one of three instructional leaders at West Senior High, which means her classroom “exemplifies the standards of good teaching.”
The first in her district to use video equipment to differentiate instruction, Jenkins-Whall is involved in developing curriculum and common assessments for the science and math departments. Her techniques rooted in the Harvard-based Teaching for Understanding model, Jenkins-Whall embraces technology in her class, where she cultivates a hands-on student-focused approach. Her lectures are available online, and she makes it a point to involve parents in the learning process. Enrollment grows in every class she teaches.
Ninety percent of her students pass the AP Chemistry exam, with 38 percent posting a 5. On state exams, 78 percent of 11th-graders were proficient in 2011, an increase from 73 percent in 2010. All scores are well above the state average.
Jenkins-Whall’s leadership spans school and district levels. She has presented at state conferences, including those hosted by the Michigan Science Teachers Association, and has been instrumental in West High’s development of smaller learning communities. Jenkins-Whall is currently the science PLC leader, site team leader, Class Council advisor and has held many other positions in her district.
Having recently returned from Instructional Rounds Level 2 training as a member of her district teams, my interest are changing from what is happening soley in my classroom to what types of changes and strategies would help improve instruction systematically.
2005 Michigan State University, Masters in Curriculum
1995 University of Michigan, Bachelor of Science in Education
