Influencer of the Week: Jackie Conover, Foundation Academy

Jackie Conover is the curriculum and instruction specialist at Foundation Academy and is described as multifaceted. In her nine years at the private school, she has worked in many capacities, from curriculum to technology, and much of what she does influences the families’ and students’ experiences at the school. Some of her tasks include overseeing curriculum mapping, professional development and technology integration into the classroom. Last year, she worked on the team that switched the school to remote learning, and she currently is getting Foundation ready for an accreditation visit in 2022.

She won the President’s Award in 2017 and 2019 and the Principal’s Award in 2020.

What brought you to your school?

When we moved to the area in 2009, we were looking for a preschool for our son and we found Foundation Academy. I am a product of Christian education, and I have always wanted the same for my children. I started as a parent, and within a couple years I excitedly joined the Foundation family as a second-grade teacher.

What do you love most about your school?

I love the heart of FA. We truly exist to work with families and the church to help our students build a firm foundation for their life. It is not just a motto — it is our heartbeat. 

What is your motivation?

My relationship with Jesus is my motivation. He rescued me from trying to do life on my own strength, and I want to do everything I can to share his love with others.  

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

People are the most rewarding part of my job, the little ones and the big ones! I have loved working with students — and now, to be able to work alongside our amazing teachers and administration, is such a privilege. I have recently had the opportunity to develop our “Portrait of Graduate” with our faculty and staff. I absolutely loved this rich time of collaboration. 

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I love to spend time with my family and clean or organize! A wonderful Saturday for me is an early walk on the trail, lots of time to clean the house and having a family meal together. 

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why?

I would have to go with Mrs. Bell. She was my middle school/high school English teacher and newspaper advisor. She understood learning styles, and she could bring the best out of everyone. She believed in every student and their ability to succeed. Most importantly she taught by example how to love the Lord. 

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? Why?

I always wanted to be a teacher. I had to work hard for the grades I received, and the teachers who came alongside me made all of the difference. I wanted to do the same for students in my own class.   

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

Growing up I would say it was “Where the Sidewalk Ends,” by Shel Silverstein, but now I would have to go with “Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library.”  It is a wonderful book about the power of reading and the wonder of a good book. 

What are your hobbies?

 I love to walk on the trail. I should be running, but walking is just so much more fun! I also love to make chocolate chip cookies.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

I wish I could make everyone love one another. It would change the world. 

If you could only listen to three bands or artists for the rest of your life, what would they be and why?

I would pick Lauren Daigle, she has a great, soulful voice and her songs really capture her relationship with the Lord. My second would be Michael Buble because he does a great job covering a wide variety of those old jazz and soul songs. Andy Grammer would be my third. His songs are fun, uplifting and hopeful. 

How long have you been at your school and with OCPS?

 I have been at Foundation for nine years now.