Jensen Douglas

I graduated Magna Cum Laude from Murray State University with a BFA in Printmaking and K-12 certification in Fine Arts and Humanities. I currently hold teaching certificates in both KY and IN. My career began with teaching in public elementary and secondary classrooms. I started working at Chance School 6 years ago and have been able to spend time in almost every classroom and level here. The majority of my first two years at Chance were spent teaching in one of our K/1 classrooms. I have taught the last 4 years in the 3s program. Some of my other professional experiences include providing after school tutoring for K-12 grade children living in a group home, and serving as a workshop leader, presenter and facilitator at numerous state professional meetings and teacher conferences in both Kentucky and Indiana. The opportunity arose to teach and move into PreK this year. I am excited to start my 17th year of teaching with a new adventure in the PreK program here at Virginia Chance School. 

I started my education journey immersed in the world of Montessori. I feel very fortunate to have the Montessori foundation for not only my personal experience as a child, but also for how it has shaped my outlook and philosophy of education in my adult life. Teaching is my true passion. I believe children must be allowed to build independence and confidence through a safe and trusting relationship with their parents, teachers, peers and environment. At Chance School we value students having a voice and provide ample opportunities for them to explore their interests in deep and meaningful ways. We believe in following their lead by careful observation of what they choose to explore during our independent free-play and center times. These observations help shape our curriculum.

I was introduced to Virginia Chance School when my daughter, Leona, was 4 and I was beyond thrilled to see the unique whole-child centered approach to education focusing on nature, community and social-emotional learning throughout the school and beautiful campus. I knew when I first toured, that this is where I wanted both of us to be. Leona graduated Chance this year and is off to new adventures in Middle School. I could not be more proud of the kind and capable young lady that she has become. 

During my time outside of school, I enjoy traveling, working in my yard, eating great food (plenty of that in Louisville) and spending time with Leona, my husband Branden and my Mom, Camille (Leona’s Gramille). We also have 5 cats (yes, you read that correctly), Miso, Lil’ Floof, Mai Tai, Scribbles and Sketch that keep us entertained daily with their crazy cat antics!