In less than a week, Chandra Jennings will say goodbye to her 2nd-grade students at Jefferson Elementary School. After more than 35 years of a fulfilling teaching career, she’s made the bittersweet decision to retire. It’s a full circle moment for Jennings, who will give her final lesson in the same classroom where she once sat as a kindergartner on her first day of school.
Ms. Jennings grew up in Johnston City and attended our school district from kindergarten through high school. She embarked on a career path, quickly returning to her hometown and working for our schools.
“My mother was a substitute teacher, and she inspired me to pursue a career in education,” Ms. Jennings remembers. “I was hired in 1987 as Mrs. Karla Jackson’s first-grade teaching assistant at Jefferson School. We continue to be good friends.”
In 1990, she landed her first full-time teaching role at Lincoln School, leading a combined first- and second-grade class. After three years, she transferred to Washington School, where she taught second grade for 22 years.
“I have found fulfillment in the ability to make a positive impact on my students’ lives,” she reflects. “I have tried to inspire a love for learning, as well as instill self-esteem and having compassion for others.”
Ms. Jennings began teaching second grade at Jefferson School in 2015, when the district implemented attendance centers. It’s been her second home ever since, and she’s proud of her impact in the classroom and the community.
“Teachers have a special role in educating the next generation,” she shares. “I currently teach the son of a student that I had in my very first class. I continue to enjoy running into former students.”
One person who has seen that impact firsthand is fellow second-grade teacher Mr. Kee. They’ve known each other since high school, have worked at the district together for more than 30 years, and spent the last four years just steps away as classroom neighbors.
Mr. Kee will remember some of the lesson plans they’ve been able to give to their classrooms together and the enjoyment second-grade students had learning.
“Chandra and I have always done dioramas over the years, and she loved introducing the kids to fun art projects,” he recalls. “Back in the day, she loved teaching D’Nealian writing as well. We still talk about how much kids love learning cursive.”
As if growing up and working together isn’t enough, Ms. Jennings and Mr. Kee are tied together through another bond. Both teachers are retiring at the same time, but Mr. Kee knows their relationship will continue for years to come.
“We’ve been friends forever and always will be, but I’ll miss seeing her every day,” Mr. Kee adds. “We’ve shared many laughs and tears over the years. I can’t think of anyone I would rather retire with.”
Another colleague who will miss her dearly is second-grade teacher Mrs. Dover, who’s worked at Jefferson Elementary for six years. She can recall how their friendship quickly blossomed.
“Chandra welcomed me and made me feel part of the team from the beginning,” Mrs. Dover says. “She has the kindest, sweetest heart, so we connected that way.”
Mrs. Dover recognizes all the hard work Ms. Jennings has put in over the years and the dedication to her students. She has one request for the soon-to-be retiree.
“ I just hope that she will take some time for herself and enjoy life a little bit,” Mrs. Dover says with teary eyes.
Until then, it’s her final days at Jefferson Elementary, which have already been filled with emotion and will continue to be until the final farewell.
“The second-grade students recently surprised Mr. Kee and me with a special farewell serenade,” Ms. Jennings explains. “We also each received a keepsake where students shared their favorite memories throughout the year. The staff also had several surprises in store for us, including videos with photos and heartfelt wishes.”
Her classroom is now all packed with drawings, letters, and keepsakes now in boxes ready to be taken home. Ms. Jennings knows that her departure marks the end of more than just a chapter. Her classroom, too, will soon be gone, as Jefferson Elementary undergoes construction and expansion.
“I have come full circle, as I began my education in this very room where I was a kindergartener.”
From the wide-eyed kindergartener who once sat in that very classroom, filled with curiosity and wonder, to the beloved teacher who would one day stand at the front of it, guiding and inspiring young minds—her journey is nothing short of remarkable. It reminds us all that the seeds planted in childhood can grow into something truly transformative—not just for the individual, but for every life they touch along the way.
