Q&A with Jennifer Nowlin

What drew you to FWCD in 2022?

Many moons ago, I was a nanny for a family whose children attended FWCD. That’s when I first noticed all the great opportunities and programs the School makes available to students. Years later, a friend told me there was an opening in the Lower School. At the time, I was teaching a self-contained special education class and loved my students, but I knew this was my chance to become part of the FWCD community.

Did you always plan to be a teacher?

When I first graduated from high school, I wanted to be a nurse, but I didn’t do so great in my chemistry classes! So, I switched my major to art, which I had always loved to study. Throughout college, I continued working as a nanny and realized my love for kiddos was leading me toward teaching. That’s when I decided to get my certification through the University of Texas at Arlington. I’ve been teaching for 19 years now, and I love making connections with my students and their families. Being able to be a positive influence through those relationships means everything to me. My philosophy is that you must build positive relationships with your students and provide a welcoming and inclusive environment that is both fun and structured. Lessons should include plenty of hands-on activities, plus a backup plan in case something goes awry, and be grounded in meaningful content.

What do you love about elementary school-aged children?

It’s so fun to see how much the second graders grow in the year they’re with us! They not only make big improvements in academic areas but also in their social-emotional development. They learn to navigate friendships while also becoming more independent. There is never a dull moment … these little ones will keep you on your toes!

How do you support FWCD’s mission and core values?

We talk about the core values every day during our morning meetings. The kids have a chance to share their “sunny” or “cloudy” news and, from there, all kinds of meaningful discussions pop up. We might talk about how someone reacted during a soccer game and whether they showed integrity, support one another if a parent is out of town, or cheer on someone who had the courage to perform in their first cheer competition.

What do you like to do in your free time?

In my free time, I like to embroider while listening to an audiobook or podcast. I also enjoy spending time outside, gardening or playing pickleball, and being with my family and friends.