About Jen Bontrager

I’m married to Ben, three boys ages 20, 18, 14, grew up in goshen, I love reading, walking, biking, doodling, baking, and eating out with my family and friends.

What is your philosophy of teaching?

I believe students learn best when they feel cared for and safe. I include storytelling, movement, singing, and fun in my lessons whenever possible. I enjoy sharing my life with my students and I am honored when they share their lives with their classmates and me.

What kind of classroom experience do you try to create for your students?

My goal is for my classroom to feel like a family that supports each other, encourages each other, laughs together, and feels sad together. I want my students to be quick to see the good in each other. I am playful with my students and love when we have "inside jokes".

How do you keep students engaged in their learning experience?

I try to choose materials in the form of books, games, activities, and topics that my students have shown interest in. I hope to nurture curiosity as well as give them enough success to keep them going while still challenging them.

What qualities or life skills do you wish to impart to your students?

A love for learning (especially reading), perseverance, and empathy toward others.

What fuels your passion and drive to be an educator?

I love seeing the world from a seven year old's eyes, I have fun with my students, I love to see them progress academically and emotionally during the course of the school year.

What makes teaching at Bethany unique or special?

I have a lot of freedom to teach in the way that feels right for me and my students. The camaraderie between all levels is very special. There is a powerful sense of love among the staff for the students we teach and care for on a daily basis.

Is there a topic in the area you teach that you're especially passionate about?

I want kids to leave my class with a love for reading.