Reading teacher Jennifer Wisnewski is here with a friendly face and a helping hand to help kids in all grades. Wisnewski previously worked at North and South Middle Schools. Students and staff are excited to have this new, optimistic teacher in the building. Wisnewski shared that she graduated with a degree in secondary education and history from the University of Scranton in Pennsylvania. She then received a master’s degree in literacy and cognition from St. Joseph’s University. Choosing a career for the rest of one’s life can be a stressful thing, but Wisnewski’s childhood helped her make this decision easily. She said, “Growing up, I had some great teachers who made learning fun. I’ve always wanted to be able to do that for the students that I teach.”
The high school can seem a very big and daunting place at first; Wisnewski agreed, and said, “In the beginning, I was worried about getting lost, but I’ve started to figure out my way around the building.” Lynbrook has a student body and staff that Wisnewski characterized as “warm and welcoming.” She added, “I am fortunate enough to work with a great group of students.”
Wisnewski likes being at the high school. She said, “Since I’ve been lucky enough to teach at both North and South Middle Schools, it’s been great getting to reconnect with so many of my former students. I even get to teach some of the students I had in previous years. It’s always so nice catching up with students I had in the past.” One of her former students from North Middle School, freshman Shannon Clausen, who had her as a teacher in sixth grade for English and social studies, described her as “super nice and one of her favorite teachers.”
Another former student, junior Meryl Bilal, agreed with Clausen. Bilal said she adored Wisnewski’s teaching style and shared, “I liked that Ms. Wisnewski would have many hands-on activities, and she was a good teacher whom I learned a lot from.” Clausen added, “She was always there for her students and made sure to explain things so everyone understood. She also made class very fun and did fun activities that helped us learn more while still being entertained.”
Being at the high school is a new experience for Wisnewski. She expressed her enthusiasm by saying she is looking forward to meeting new people: “I love meeting new people and learning new things! It’s been great getting to meet new students and staff. Working with new people is always a great opportunity to learn new things that I can try in the classroom.”
When she is not teaching, Wisnewski likes to be outdoors: “Whether it’s swimming, hiking, or just hanging out at the beach, I am always happiest outside.” A unique thing she shared was her obsession with pugs: “My family has always had pugs when I was growing up, and I still have one today. I’m always finding ways to include them in my lessons.” Wisnewski is very excited for what this school year has to bring. “I am excited to meet new people and learn new things,” Wisnewski added.
