Birdwell Dual Language Immersion School’s Beloved Counselor Reflects on Her Journey and the Importance of Dual Language Immersion
Birdwell Dual Language Immersion School’s counselor, Jennifer Thompson, is known for her deep connection to the school and its community. Having taught 2nd, 3rd, and 4th grades for four years before becoming the school counselor three years ago, Jennifer’s dedication to her students and their families is evident in every aspect of her work.
A Journey Rooted in Birdwell
Jennifer began her career in education at Birdwell, a school that has since become a significant part of her life. "Birdwell has a large piece of my heart because I began my career in education here. It has been a pleasure to see Birdwell develop into the bilingual school it is today and to know that it has grown from strong roots of high expectations and belief in students," she shared.
Championing Dual Language Immersion
Though not bilingual herself, Jennifer is a strong advocate for Birdwell’s Dual Language Immersion program. She sees it as an invaluable opportunity for students to learn and grow in both English and Spanish. "Dual Language Immersion is an opportunity for our students to learn curriculum and social skills in two languages that will provide them with more opportunities in their future," she explained.
Building Lasting Connections
Jennifer’s connection with her students goes beyond the classroom. From 2018 to 2021, she looped up with a group of students, teaching them for three consecutive years. This unique experience created a close-knit school family, and the bond continues today. "Seeing them grow up has brought me so much joy! We even buried a time capsule on the playground and plan to dig it up in 2031!" she said with a smile.
Engagement and Support
Jennifer’s role as a counselor involves more than just one-on-one interactions. She is actively involved in the school community, visiting classrooms monthly for guidance lessons, and engaging with students through leadership roles, small groups, and individual counseling. She also works closely with parents, attending 504 meetings, PTA events, and offering individual appointments.
Balancing Work and Life
Outside of work, Jennifer is devoted to her family, which includes her husband, their son Jack, and their two dogs, Annie and Lucy. This summer, the family explored various parts of Texas, including Galveston, Ft. Worth, Kingsland, and Austin. Jennifer emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy work/life balance, stating, "When I’m at home, I focus on my family, taking care of the house, and taking care of myself."
Jennifer Thompson’s impact on Birdwell Dual Language Immersion School is undeniable, and her continued dedication to the school’s students and families makes her an invaluable member of the Birdwell community.