Creekside Middle School health teacher named Midwest Health Education District Teacher of the Year

By Amanda Foust

Jenny Berju of Creekside Middle School was named SHAPE America's Midwest District Health Education Teacher of the Year and nominated for the National Health Education Teacher of the Year award. SHAPE America is the nation's largest membership organization of health and physical education professionals.

The award recognizes outstanding performance in teaching health and motivating students to choose healthy living for life.

“I'm a passionate teacher who loves what I do and couldn't imagine doing anything else,” Berju said.

With an emphasis on healthy eating and an active lifestyle, Berju strives to create a teaching environment that is both fun and challenging.

“I want all of my students to enjoy health and know it's something they'll use for the rest of their lives, even teaching family and friends the same habits,” she said.

A graduate of Butler University with a bachelor's degree in secondary education and Ball State University with a master's degree in administration and supervision, Berju has taught every grade, K-12, before coming to Carmel four years ago.

Berju had to prove herself to the SHAPE America board by submitting an application, filling out an extensive questionnaire and sending sample lesson plans. For the Panhellenic award, expectations were even higher. She was asked to record herself teaching a lesson and interview former teachers of the year.

After hearing she received the Midwest Award and the national nomination to follow, she was stunned.

“There are so many amazing teachers out there, so I was shocked and humbled to hear that,” she said.

In the classroom, Berju students actively participate in stations, partner activities, and group work that involves movement. Her goal is to help her students take ownership of their health goals and she gives them many opportunities to work as a team.

“Mrs. Berju's teaching is interactive and makes health interesting,” said Erika White, 12, a student at Creekside.

Berju will be recognized April 5-9 at the National Convention & Expo in Minneapolis, Minn., with the recipient of The National Health Education Teacher of the Year Award to be announced April 8.