INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK: Jaime Clancy, Olympia High School

Jaime Clancy is the AICE General Paper teacher, Titan Market school coordinator and Student Support Foundation sponsor, as well as an adviser for the IMPACT club at Olympia High School. She won Teacher of the Year for the 2020-21 school year. 

“Jaime works tirelessly to prepare her students for the rigor of advanced coursework by teaching them to think critically and write at a college level,” Principal Christy Gorberg said. “Mrs. Clancy also heads up our Titan Market, which is a partnership with a local charity to provide free food, including fresh fruits and vegetables to all students. In addition, she is in charge of our IMPACT club and organizes events for Black History Month, which culminates in the Black History Month Showcase each year.”

What brought you to your school?

My family and I moved to Florida, and Olympia was one of two schools that were closest to where we lived at the time. 

What do you love most about your school?

I love that we are a school that works to have a place for every student. We have an awesome performing arts department, many successful athletic teams — boys and girls — so many different clubs for students to join and a continued drive for high academic excellence.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part is when my students truly begin to understand the concepts we are learning — the lightbulb moment. But even more so, when they return with their stories of success after leaving my class. 

What would you be if you weren’t in this profession?  

I would be a yoga instructor or a travel blogger/writer. 

Who influences you?  

My mother. She is a woman who has raised two children on her own, has retired from two careers and currently is working on her third career as an artist. She has continually encouraged me and has taught me that there is always a way. Sometimes, you just have to adjust your perspective to see the way through. 

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

Mrs. Allison was my senior year English teacher. She was an amazing teacher who acknowledged my potential and encouraged me. 

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

It’s difficult to name one book, because I was an avid reader as a child, but the ones that stand out are “Charlotte’s Web,” “A Wrinkle in Time,” “Secret Garden” and “Bridge to Terabithia.” They were books that were about friendship, imagination and the power of love, which are themes that have always been important to me. 

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I like to write, read, travel, watch sports and practice yoga. 

If you could dine with any famous person, past or present, who would it be and why?

I would love to dine with Toni Morrison. She has been one of my favorite authors since I was young. I would love to ask her about her writing process and to have the opportunity to listen to her talk about her perspective and the challenges she faced, because so many of her novels were seen as controversial. 

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

I would love to have the ability to teleport, because I like to travel, and it would be wonderful to think of a place and then be able to be there. 

If you could only listen to three bands or artists, who would they be and why?

Prince, because he was a phenomenal artist, and his music still resonates today. Lauryn Hill, because “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” album is one of my absolute favorites. Aretha Franklin, because she has a song for every occasion. 

What was your go-to lunch and favorite snack as an elementary student?

PB&J and the original Doritos. 

What is your favorite holiday and why?

Christmas is my favorite holiday, because I love the atmosphere, and I love how everyone treats (one another). 

Who was your best friend when you were in school and why? Are you still in touch?

Deadra. She has been my best friend since college. She is one of the most intelligent people that I know, and she is someone who has encouraged me, comforted me and challenged me throughout our friendship. 

What were your extracurricular activities as a student? Did you win any accolades or honors?

I was a gymnast for many years, and, yes, there were some medals. I was also a member of the African American Dance Company while I was in college.