Maynard determined to make an impact
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Jennifer’s husband, Rodney, and his mother, Becky, felt Jennifer would make a wonderful teacher. And after some discussion it was apparent there would be not one, but two future educators in the family. In an admirable show of support for each other, Becky (who was a teacher’s assistant at the time) and Jennifer began college together, taking mostly off-campus classes through Tennessee Tech.
Becky and Jennifer both maintain it was a great experience.
“We carpooled and studied together,” says Becky, who is obviously very proud of her daughter-in-law. So close are they, in fact, they are neighbors too.
Jennifer attained her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from TTU, the latter in administrative supervision. She loves teaching her classes, and says seeing the influence one can have in a child’s life makes everything worthwhile for her.
“To see someone who’s having a rough time and then make a difference in their lives,” says Jennifer, “is the best.”
Working closely with Jennifer is another Jennifer, Mrs. McMillen, who also teaches fifth grade at West. She says Maynard is, “soft-spoken, but very sweet. Her kids love her. She would do anything for them and they would do anything for her.”
Although Maynard is a quiet person, it is obvious her students listens to what she has to say. During this time of year, most of the focus begins to center around the upcoming graduation ceremonies.
“We have a fifth-grade graduation,” she explains, “because fifth is as high as we go, where some schools include through grade eight. The kids are really excited about it.”
Jennifer spends most of her free time going to various ball games with her children. Kristin, 6, and Kayla, 9, are active in several different seasonal sports, including T-ball, basketball, and both indoor and outdoor soccer.
Jennifer enjoys the games, and it keeps her and husband on their toes.