U of A Alumna Named P.E. Teacher of Year in Alaska

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Jenna White

Jenna White, a 2012 graduate of the University of Arkansas, was recently named 2013 Physical Education Teacher of the Year by the Alaska affiliate of the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance.

White, a P.E. teacher at Orion Elementary School in the Anchorage School District, received the award at the association's annual conference. She earned a Master of Education in Physical Education from the College of Education and Health Professions. It is delivered online through the Global Campus.

White is in her sixth year at Orion. She was named the outstanding master's student in physical education by the College of Education and Health Professions in 2012. As an undergraduate at the University of Central Arkansas, White was named the Outstanding Major of the Year by the National Association for Sport and Physical Education, which is a division of the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance.

White has made significant contributions to the profession during her six years with the Anchorage School District, according to a news release about the award.  She was a member of a standards-based assessment committee, which over a period of two years designed and piloted standards for elementary physical education. She has also been a presenter at in-service training to colleagues on implementation of these standards, as well as taught a credit course on the subject. 

"Jenna's relationships with students, staff and families are amazing," said Diane Hoffbauer, Orion principal. "The learning environment is welcoming, and everyone likes to join in her activities, either during class or after school. She organizes running, skiing and skating clubs and often has parents and staff members joining her. She is a motivator, a teacher and a cheerleader for the students and families of Orion. Her positive attitude and calm teaching style support everything she does."