Meet Ms. Jenny Cooper, the talented new Art Instructor at Kennedy Elementary! After teaching in another district, Jenny sought a full-time position in a school community where the arts are truly appreciated and celebrated. She's thrilled to have found her new home in Hastings, where she feels welcomed and at ease.

While Ms. Cooper wishes for a few more hands-on days filled with messy, creative projects, her favorite part of teaching art is watching students who may struggle in other subjects truly shine in the art room. "Creation is an innate part of being human," she explains. "By providing students with a rich, hands-on art experience, we can nurture their creativity, which is key to both their academic success and personal happiness."

Ms. Cooper is excited to be part of her students' artistic journeys. She hopes the skills and perspectives they gain in her classroom will inspire them long after they leave elementary school. "I want them to carry a creative spirit with them as they move forward in their school and professional careers," she says.

When asked about her personal inspirations, Ms. Cooper reflects, "The helpers of the world inspire me—the people who step up in times of crisis, those who put others' needs before their own, and the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to care for others. These are the people who inspire me the most."

Outside the classroom, Ms. Cooper enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters, Evie and Bree. Together, they love mountain biking, cooking delicious meals, and traveling whenever possible. A lifelong soccer enthusiast, Ms. Cooper has played on a women's soccer team for 16 years!

We're so grateful to have Ms. Cooper with us at Kennedy Elementary, inspiring our students and fost