Jennifer Brewer

Describe your classroom in five words: Inquire, research, create, collaborate, demonstrate
Teacher Profile:

I am the Director of the Jackson Library, Lower School Librarian and Lower School Innovation Coordinator.  I was born in Mesa, Arizona and spent my childhood moving with my family, as my father was in the military.  I attended seven different schools in Europe and the U.S. by the time I was in sixth grade.  I graduated from Wake Forest University with a B.A. in English Literature and then went on to receive my M.S. in Library Science from The University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, specializing in School Libraries. My first job was the Director of a High School Library Media Center in a private school in Pennsylvania where I set up the library from scratch. I will never forget actually putting every one of the "paper" cards in order for the card catalog.  I moved to Maine in 1996 and have worked at Berwick Academy since 2002. My three children all attended and graduated from Berwick Academy. I love working with children and being part of the process of encouraging reading and a love of books.
 
Why do you love teaching library and technology classes?
Technology and library use should not occur in isolation, but should be an integrated component across all subject areas. Library-technology instruction establishes life-long skills in acquiring, understanding and presenting information, as well as using technology for learning. We love helping students engage with library and technology resources to create a foundation for the years of learning ahead.

How do you define great teaching?
We believe that an effective teacher challenges and inspires learners to foster creativity, exploration and collaboration. Through project-based units, students acquire important skills seamlessly while actively engaged in meaningful experiences. We must set the framework for students to be life-long learners and responsible members of our global society.
 
Describe your classroom in five words: Inquire, research, create, collaborate, demonstrate
 
What is your favorite thing about the Lower School?
We love the enthusiasm and spirit of young learners. Always excited about new ideas and concepts, Lower School students can be counted on to be engaged in every kind of learning activity. Young students have a natural thirst for knowledge and confidence with technology that enables them to be successful and creative as they gather, evaluate and use information.
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Berwick Academy

Berwick Academy, situated on an 80-acre campus just over one hour north of Boston, serves 550 students, Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 and Post-Graduates. Berwick students are from Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and several countries. Deeply committed to its mission of promoting virtue and useful knowledge, Berwick Academy empowers students to be creative and bold. Berwick strives to graduate alumni who shape their own learning, take risks, ask thoughtful questions, and come to understand and celebrate their authentic selves.