LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Jennifer Strauser was nominated by an anonymous colleague.

Mrs. Strauser is so much more than a dedicated educator; she is an amazing wife, supportive mother, tremendous team member, mentor, loving grandmother and wonderful person.  She has changed the lives of countless students and staff in her role by creating a positive school atmosphere, possessing the ability to make a beneficial difference in those she meets, leading by example in her district and state, always adhering to high moral and ethical standards in education, and compiling a record of excellent performance as a professional educator.  

"In her 13 years at Eureka High School, Mrs. Strauser has continued to make a beneficial difference in the lives of students in so many ways," her nominator said. "One of the most impressive to me is the development of  a student and staff diversity group: E2 and E2Y2.  This group was founded more than eight years ago to provide a safe space for students to engage in conversations that might be viewed as 'tough.' These conversations dive into race, sexual orientation, and religion. This group included staff members who are there to listen to our students and support them fully. This group continues to grow each year, along with the positive work that the group performs."

Mrs. Strauser also organizes a Wellness Day for students and staff each year, which allows them to sample different activities that they may be interested in outside of the normal educational offerings and outside their own comfort zones.
Some of the activities that have been offered in the past include yoga, painting, weight training, Crossfit-style workouts, cooking, dance, landscaping, exercise, chess, comedy improv, health topics, sports, hiking, knitting, music, art, and meditation and mindfulness. 

"Our first wellness conference was in response to our focus on social-emotional learning," said Strauser. "I thought it would be great if we could give students a chance to learn what they can do to relieve stress.  This day highlights wellness; it's not 'anti-' anything. This is all about promoting wellness, not opposing anything else."

Mrs. Strauser adds to the school's atmosphere in a positive way through leading by example.  She is someone who gets things done and organizes events to enhance the climate and culture of her school community.  She organizes and participates in book studies, countless professional development opportunities, ePLO's, chili cook-offs, family dinners, and more. If someone needs something taken care of, they go to her!  They know that it will not only get done, but it will be done with precision.

Mrs. Strauser currently serves as the associate principal at Eureka High School and has handled the day-to-day working of her school for the past five years.  She is the supervisor for the English Language Arts department and takes pride in seeing all of the amazing things those teachers accomplish with the students.  She is a member of many committees at the school, district, and state-levels. Mrs. Strauser currently serves on the Rockwood Learning Council and professional development committee. She's also on the Board of Directors for the Missouri Association of Secondary School Principals.  Her professionalism, experience, and expertise are evident, not only on these committees, but on a daily basis with the students and staff at Eureka High School.

Mrs. Strauser has been recognized for her excellence on a professional level.  One example of this recognition is that she is a past recipient of the Rose Award, which is bestowed upon individuals who show excellence of character, performance, leadership, and service to Rockwood School District. The Rose Award is one of the highest awards that can be earned in the Rockwood School District. She is a member of numerous professional organizations on the local, state, and national level.  She is a person who lives her passion on a daily basis. Mrs. Strauser knows her "why," and that is to change the lives of students for the better.  Mrs. Strauser truly is a LifeChanger.