Marianna Jennings

My story

My name is Marianna Jennings and I will be starting my 16th year in CPS in September. As a high school math educator, I see math as a gateway to college acceptance and beyond. I strive to build in students a growth mindset that opens doors to deeper understanding of math. I believe that all students can learn math. I want them to believe that as well.

My equity challenge and how I work on it

My challenge is to explore how student voice shifts my lesson planning. Will more students be able to demonstrate mastery if they can see how their voice directs the lessons? I have begun to survey students and have focused on responses about student input and student choice.

Quote/motto or one piece of advice for a teacher who is thinking about doing this work

Never be afraid to try something new. As Mother Teresa said, "Failure is merely feedback that there is something blocking the path of the emergence and expansion of the greatest version of yourself."

Additional comments

Be open and honest with students about what you are trying to do. You become a partner with them in the learning process.