Educators are perhaps the greatest population of unsung heroes in Berrien and Cass County. This school year, Leader Publications will publish a weekly spotlight featuring teachers throughout the district, giving the community a chance to get to know the hard-working individuals shaping their children’s lives. Throughout the next school year, their answers will be published in the newspaper that serves each school district.

Name: Jennifer Fadely

School: Niles High School

Grade(s)/subject(s) taught: Spanish II/III/IV (10th-12th grade) also work with ELLs (English Language Learners) throughout the district

Where did you attend college? Grand Valley State University, Universidad de Guadalajara

How many years have you been teaching? How many years have you been with your current school? This is my 16th year, and 16th year at Niles.

Why did you decide to become a teacher?  I wanted to be a part of the next generation, stay forever young working with the youth.  I also wanted to be able to have the same breaks as my children.

Outside of school, what do you enjoy doing for fun? I enjoy running, tailgating, spending time with family and friends.

What is one thing your students may not know about you?  I have very close friendships with some of their other teachers.

Who is your favorite fictional character and why? Beatrice Prior. She’s fierce but kind and fights for what’s right.

When you were a student in the grade you teach, what were your favorite hobbies? Spending time with friends, swimming and going on the boat.

How would your co-workers describe your teaching style and personality? Energetic and friendly.

Who is your biggest role model and why? My grandparents because they were incredible people. They loved to travel and see different cultures.

How has education changed in the last 10 years? The pressure is on teachers more than ever for many different accountabilities.

What is your best advice to parents to help their child continue growing academically? It’s OK for them to fail, make it a learning opportunity not an opportunity to argue with the teacher about their grade. Developing a growth mindset is very important.

If my students learn one thing this year, I hope it is… how important it is to embrace diversity.

This photo was taken during spirit week.