Snow HIll - West Greene Elementary School Announce their Teacher of the Year shortly before spring break. This year's honor goes to Ms. Jessica Ogren. Ms. Ogren serves as the Music Teacher for the school.

Originally from Kinston, Ogren graduated from East Carolina University with a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education with a concentration in Child Studies. Ogren joined the staff of West Greene in 2015 and has 10 years of experience as a teacher. She has served as a 2nd-grade teacher, a 3rd-grade teacher, and now as the Music Teacher. 

She shared that what she loves about teaching is being “ able to share my love of music with our students and staff. Seeing the aha moments when the students create their own pieces or sing their hearts out, fills my heart with such joy!”

Throughout her career, Ogren shared that her greatest challenge has been to overcome being a “people pleaser”. She shared that “it’s taken time to understand it’s ok to say no and set boundaries for yourself as to not get burned out or stretch yourself too thin.”
Ogren shared that her ultimate goal is to continue working in the direction she ahs been in She loves sharing music with her students and loves her current role as the SEL (social emotional learning) lead. 

When not at school Ms. Ogren can be found serving as a year round volunteer coordinator for Operation Christmas Child, hanging out with her dog Jack and being involved at her home church, Immanuel Baptist Church in Kinston.

When asked what words of wisdom would she share with her colleagues and students, she shared “ I want our students and staff to remember that even during trials and hardships we can still find joy and shine a positive light towards others.”

Ms. Ogren goes on to compete with the other GCS School Teacher of the year for the privilege of being named Greene County Schools Teacher of the Year which will be announced in May.