The Gifford Youth Achievement Center (GYAC) was excited to introduce one of its new teachers, Mrs. Strowbridge, earlier this week. To add to this marvelous team, Mrs. Jenkins joined the GYAC family at the beginning of this school year.
Want to learn more about her? Read the brief Q&A below:
Q: When did you start working at GYAC?
A: “I started on August 10, 2023, so I’m a newbie.”
Q: What grade level do you teach and why?
A: Eighth grade. “I prefer working with older students because you can focus on teaching them life skills and lessons.”
Q: How have your life experiences prepared you to be a teacher at GYAC?
A: “I come with a plethora of experience. I’ve worked with different cultures and ages.” Mrs. Jenkins has worked for the Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Lucie County, Hibiscus Children’s Center, and the school system. She also teaches children at her church. “For me, I’ve always known that I enjoy working with kids. To see youth in different stages of their life is very rewarding. Also, to see their success stories is probably the most beneficial part for me.”
Q: What’s one thing you want people to know about you?
A: “I am a very authentic person, and my personality is going to shine through. I’m goofy, have a sense of humor, and very outgoing. I like to have a positive impact, so if I can bring some type of happiness to someone by either complimenting or helping them, that’s what I want to be remembered by.” Mrs. Jenkins has made a positive impact through the relationships she has built with several youth. “I still talk to three that I met while working at Hibiscus Children’s Center. I still encourage them and play a positive role in their life as a caring adult to give them advice. I even ended up adopting one of them.”
Q: What’s the most unique thing that you’ve ever done?
A: “I am very adventurous and love to travel. I’ve also been bungee jumping before.” Mrs. Jenkins has traveled to places, such as the Middle East, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Dubai. She finds something “unique and special” about each place she has been to.
GYAC is happy to have Mrs. Jenkins join the family and looks forward to creating great memories throughout the school year. Be sure to follow us on social media to receive the latest updates about our programs.
