Schimelpfenig Middle School 2026

Jeannie Freeman

Schimelpfenig Middle School - Middle School Science Teacher, Grade 7
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Teaching Philosophy

In my senior year of college, I was asked to write a "philosophy of teaching" essay. I wrote about me, as an educator, kneeling and looking into the eyes of a small girl standing just outside of a red brick school building. I described the connection a teacher feels with a child — the desire to meet that child's needs, to expand her vision, and to empower her to pursue her dreams wherever they may lead. I wrote about telling that child that I believed in her. While that vision may seem idealistic, that connection, that ability to empower a child, is precisely what still motivates me, thirty years later.

I began teaching in 1995, when the world—and the classroom—looked very different from today. I moved from carrying home dusty traces of white and yellow chalk on my clothing, to stained fingertips from overhead transparency markers, to transporting my computer back and forth to school each day. Teaching methods and tools have evolved significantly. The students have changed, too. Today's learners are constantly "plugged in," for better or worse. Their access to technology, the internet, cell phones, and now artificial intelligence has fundamentally changed what they need to learn and how we must teach. Why? Because what will be expected of the graduates of 2030 is vastly different than what was expected of graduates in 2000.

In addition to being a teacher, I have spent most of my life as a student. I earned a bachelor's degree in education and a master's degree in curriculum and instruction. I was well on my way to completing a doctorate in education when life took an unexpected turn. I try to learn from every experience. I have discovered that the most challenging situations often offer the greatest growth opportunities, especially with my most difficult students. Over time, I have found that the key to breaking through the tough exteriors of these challenging students is really pretty simple: love, respect, forgiveness, and the opportunity for a fresh start each day.

These same principles guide my work with fellow educators as well. Over the past five years, I've stepped into multiple leadership roles. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I served as a student-teacher mentor. Supporting a new teacher as we navigated the challenges of online and hybrid instruction helped me realize that I had valuable experience and insight to offer others. A few years later, when the opportunity to be a new teacher mentor arose, I interviewed for the position. Leading our school's new teacher team felt like a natural progression, as I had already taken on an informal role of checking in, supporting, and encouraging new colleagues.

Around the same time, the science department was looking for a new department head, and I was encouraged to apply. During the interview, I was asked, "What is the most valuable characteristic of a leader?" That was an easy question. I was in the process of reading a great book on leadership, as I wanted to be the best new teacher mentor and, potentially, science department head I could be. Chapter one described the best leaders as humble, so I chose humility and was granted the opportunity to lead our science department. I strive each day to draw on my team's strengths, recognize accomplishments publicly, address challenges with patience and grace, and lead by example. I also extend grace to myself in my leadership endeavors; I realize that leadership, like teaching, is a continuous learning process.

One day, during a staff development meeting, teachers were describing what they teach. "I teach 6thgrade math," said one teacher. "I am a US history teacher," said another. "I teach 7th-grade English," said a third. When it was my turn, I paused. As a generalist who has taught all core subjects and most grades, I realized that my answer was different. "I teach children," I said. "I teach children how to learn—and how to love learning. If I do that well, the content will follow."

While I have state-and district-approved curricula, engaging lessons, clear classroom procedures, and high behavioral expectations for all of my students, what I really have are students. Students who wonder what the future holds. Students who question whether they are capable of meeting its challenges. These students are much like I once was: Standing on a cracked sidewalk in front of an old red brick school building, when a teacher knelt down, looked me in the eyes, and told me that she believed in me.

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Principal's Recommendation

To Whom It May Concern,

I am honored to be able to submit a letter of recommendation on behalf of Jeannie Freeman for the Plano ISD Secondary Teacher of the Year Award. I have had the privilege of working alongside Jeannie at Schimelpfenig Middle School for the past five years. Throughout our time together, I have consistently observed her unwavering dedication to our entire school community, and I can attestwithout hesitation that Jeannie possesses the dynamic instructional skills and genuine heart that truly define an exceptional educator.

Jeannie is deeply committed to building meaningful relationships with her students and creating learning environments where every child feels seen, supported, and empowered. Her philosophy of teaching is grounded in the belief that before content can truly take root, students must first believe in themselves and in their ability to learn. This belief is evident in her daily practice, as she consistently balances high expectations with compassion, encouragement, and grace. Through this approach, she creates a classroom where students are challenged to grow academically while also developing confidence, resilience, and a love of learning.

With nearly three decades of experience across multiple grade levels and content areas, Jeannie brings a rare depth of perspective to her teaching. She skillfully adapts her instruction to meet the diverse needs of learners, drawing on her strengths in differentiation, technology integration, and curriculum design. Whether guiding students through complex scientific concepts, supporting literacy development, or mentoring students in creative and collaborative projects, Jeannie ensures that each learner is provided with the tools and support necessary to succeed. Her students are not only prepared academically but also equipped to think critically, advocate for themselves, and approach future challenges with confidence.

Beyond her classroom, Jeannie is a leader among leaders, exemplifying leadership rooted in service and humility. As Science Department Head, Lead Mentor Teacher, Science Fair Building Coordinator,and former SEL Campus Coordinator, Jeannie has played a vital role in strengthening instructional practices and fostering a positive, collaborative campus culture at Schimelpfenig Middle School. She is a trusted mentor to new teachers, offering guidance, encouragement, and practical support as they navigate their new profession. Her ability to draw out the strengths of others, recognize accomplishments, and address challenges with patience and professionalism has made her a respected and valued leader among her peers.

Jeannie is also a lifelong learner who models the growth mindset she instills in both students and colleagues. Her pursuit of advanced education in curriculum and instruction, along with her ongoing professional certifications and leadership development, reflects her commitment to continuous improvement. She actively seeks new strategies, technologies, and instructional methods to ensure that her teaching remains relevant and responsive to the evolving needs of today's learners. 

It is a privilege to observe Jeannie's daily impact on students, staff, and our overall school community. It is my belief that, through her leadership both in the classroom and within our school community, many students and staff members have stretched themselves and grown as a result of the relationships Jeannie has built with them. Because of her solid instruction and constant motivation and encouragement, our students continue to be positively impacted by Jeannie as they aspire to be the best they can be. Her influence extends far beyond academic achievement; she helps shape students into confident, compassionate, and curious individuals who believe in their potential and in the power of learning. Because of her leadership, mentorship, and tireless dedication to both staff and students, our school community is stronger, more connected, and better prepared to serve and meet the needs of all students.

I highly recommend Jeannie Freeman for the Plano ISD Teacher of the Year Award. She is an educator who truly "teaches children how to learn—and how to love learning." Schimelpfenig Middle School is blessed to have an amazing teacher like Jeannie Freeman, and I am very thankful to say that we are a stronger school community as a result of her efforts and her contributions each and every day.

Sincerely,

Kristen Kinnard
Principal,
Schimelpfenig Middle School