Originally from the east coast (Go, Flyers!), Jena visited Seattle 20 years ago and loved it so much, she never left. An avid nature and wildlife lover, Jena spends any spare time practicing the Japanese art of Shinrin Yoku (forest bathing), making art, and learning about video games from her son- a sixth grader whose creative focus is on game design. Before Jena found her teaching path, she was a photographer and documentary filmmaker. She has exhibited her work in New York, Seattle, Chicago, Minneapolis and Olympia and has been published in independent art publications like TEN by TEN and Arcade. Jena studied alternative photographic processes and Japanese Literature and Culture at Evergreen State, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree. She earned her Master’s degree from Miami University and completed her Teaching Certification at University of West Florida. Jena started teaching summer photography courses and has taught K-8 in several schools. She loves exploring communication and relaxation through the creative process and encouraging students of all ages to find their voice through art.
Feel free to contact me at any time with any question/concern. I coach boy's and girl's swimming, so I am usually out of the building after school until about March. Otherwise, I am available for conferences/help before school and during lunch and STAR break.
