Position: Retiring English Learner Specialist
School: Lusher Elementary School
School District: Hazelwood School District
City, State: Florissant, MO
Jean Robinson received multiple nominations from her colleagues. The following profile contains text from each nomination.
Mrs. Robinson has worked within Hazelwood School District for countless years and is set to retire at the end of this school year. She worked as a classroom teacher, reading specialist and an English learner specialist. During that time, she has worked tirelessly to provide English-language learners with the same educational opportunities all students receive. Her results speak for themselves. She consistently meets growth targets for her students, and the teachers she mentors meet similar benchmarks. She achieves these results while making sure every student feels loved, safe, and appreciated.
When she wasn’t in the classroom, Mrs. Robinson can be found volunteering for a variety of committees throughout her district, including a weekly Elementary Team Professional Learning Community. She assists the EL district coordinator and other EL teachers in the completion of projects, and she is deeply committed to her students’ education. She has also presented at various conferences and meetings in the district and state level. In every role, she brings positive energy, knowledge, and professionalism.
“I have only had the privilege of knowing Jean for one year,” said Jessica Marty. “In that one year, I have learned so much from her. She is always ready to provide support to any teacher, offer advice based on her years of experience, or lend a shoulder to lean on when we are exhausted from work. Her passion for English learners is clear...Jean is a rockstar teacher whose influence in the classroom and in the district as a leader will be sorely missed by all.”
“I have known Jean for the past 7 years, and I am so very impressed with the dedication she gives to her ELL students on a daily basis,” said Susan Flaherty. “She always puts her students first, and she wants them to become proficient in the English language. She’s also supportive of her fellow colleagues, and she’s always willing to give advice and offer various teaching strategies.”
“I met her in her role as English learner specialist. She was assigned as my mentor, and I have learned so much from her,” said Amanda Wittenkeller. “ When I observed her and her students, she was so genuine, direct, and thoughtful in her teaching. She makes sure to meet the students at their level, which is essential when working with English learners...I am excited for her and her retirement, but know she will be missed.”