Jennifer Hunter

Each year the President of the U.S. recognizes outstanding K-12 science and math teachers throughout the country. One math and one science educator is chosen from each state who exemplifies deep content knowledge combined with the ability to motivate students in science and math.

Jennifer Hunter enjoys playing mathematic games that reinforce the concepts she teaches. “I believe students learn best through exploration and discovery, so I build my lessons around both,” she said. Hunter, who described her teaching style as child-centered, integrates her students’ interests and assessments into her curriculum and teaching strategies.

Some people make the mistake of thinking that early childhood teachers only play with their students. However, constructed play is the foundation for understanding, which stays with children for the rest of their lives. Learning and understanding mathematical concepts doesn’t just happen in high school, it happens the second a child steps into a classroom.