I believe this award means you have the ability to reach kids and the intrinsic fire to continue fighting the challenges of educating our youth. The educators who have won this award excel in creating avenues for student success, motivating students to succeed in and out of the classroom, and inspiring kids to become lifelong learners. The PAEMST award bestows a responsibility to move forward with even more intensity, meeting the needs of our students. I am honored to be a part of this special group.

Jamin McKenzie St. Paul, MN | 7-12, Science, 2011

The official biography below was current at the time of the award.

Jamin McKenzie has taught Earth Science and Advanced Placement Science at Battle Creek Middle School for his 10-year teaching tenure. As a Leadership Team member and After School Site Leader, he coordinates and collaborates with many of his colleagues to ensure an effective learning experience for all students and staff. Other roles held by Jamin have included athletic coach, Science Department Chair, and Professional Learning Community Leader. Meeting the needs of all students is the driving force behind his co-created interactive online learning Web site, which has been instrumental in integrating technology into his classes. His goal was to break down the bricks and mortar of the classroom experience for students and allow them access on their own time. Jamin has presented sessions on co-teaching, standards-based grading, and using a Web site and technology as interactive learning tools. He received the Saint Paul Rotary Teacher of the Year award for 2011. Jamin has a B.S. in secondary science education from St. Cloud State University and an M.Ed. in teaching and learning from Saint Mary’s University. He is currently completing his K-12 administrative license at Saint Mary’s University. He is certified in fifth through ninth grade general sciences and grades 7-12 life sciences education.

Know a great teacher like Jamin McKenzie?