INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK: Jenna French, Bay Meadows Elementary School

Jenna French is a school assistant and cafeteria monitor at Bay Meadows Elementary School.

French is responsible for monitoring the cafeteria and supporting students’ safety and well-being, both physically and emotionally, during lunch hours. She cleans, tends to students’ needs, makes the lunch room a safe and pleasant experience for all students while maintaining decorum, and ensuring rules and procedures are followed. 

“Jenna French is an invaluable behind-the-scenes team member whose contributions make a meaningful difference in our school community,” Principal Joann Dorries said. “As a school assistant, she supports both the cafeteria and classrooms with dedication and flexibility. Jenna has provided consistent support in pre-K ESE classes and third grade, demonstrating her ability to adapt to diverse student needs. She serves as a positive role model and builds strong, genuine connections with our students, helping to create a supportive and welcoming environment for all.”

What brought you to your school? 

My mother is an educator at Bay Meadows and identified this great opportunity.

What do you love most about your school? 

I love how our school feels like a family. The community is very involved and parent and grandparents occasionally volunteer in the cafeteria. The school puts on numerous activities throughout the year to include multiple stakeholders making Bay Meadows a great place to work.

What is the most rewarding part of your job? 

The children; I adore our students. Helping students when they are feeling sad, lonely, scared, frustrated or even angry is where I excel. I have a great relationship with the school counselor and work closely with her to ensure our most vulnerable population are getting their needs met physically and emotionally. On Fridays, I sing the ABCs to the students with intellectual disabilities in our primary separate classroom. The smiles and clapping always make me happy. One of the sweet young girls always says, “Ms. Jenna you did a good job.” This is the best compliment I could receive. If the students are having fun and enjoying themselves, then so am I. 

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

A teacher. I am currently in the process of getting my teaching degree at UCF.

Who influences you? 

My parents are my biggest influences.

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

My algebra teacher in high school, Mr. Lane. He was an amazing educator and cared about his students social emotional well-being.

What is your favorite children’s book and why? 

“The Paper Bag Princess” for its important message of empowerment.

What do you like to do in your spare time? 

Read, I am an avid reader.

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

I would dine with Kristin Hannah, a famous author, to learn more about her work and writing process.

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

I would choose teleportation so that I could see my long distance family and friends anytime.

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

Noah Kahan, Eminem and Taylor Swift, for a good mix of different genres.

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

Chicken nuggets, and it’s still chicken nuggets to this day!

What is your favorite holiday and why? 

Christmas because I love all the lights and the joy it brings.

What is a fun fact about yourself that would surprise people? 

I listen to my audiobooks on three times speed. I also love to teach our students some basic sign language when I can.

What were your extracurricular activities as a student? Did you earn any accolades? 

I was the first junior to be elected as the vice president of the Virginia Teachers for Tomorrow Club.