CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Meet Jill Simons, sixth grade teacher at St. Francis School in Marshalltown.

Simons was born in Marshalltown but spent most of her childhood growing up in Mankato, Minn. She graduated from Mankato West High School in 1977 and from Mankato State University in 1981 with a bachelor’s of science degree in elementary education and a minor in special education.

Simons relocated back to Marshalltown in 1982 to teach reading and language arts, math, religion, social studies and science at St. Francis.

She and her husband, Steve, live in Marshalltown. They have three daughters — Sarah, Beth and Courtney — and three grandsons — James, 5, Ben, 3 and Levi, 1.

Q: Why did you decide to become a teacher?

A: I decided to become a teacher when I was around age 20 and finished with my general education courses. I had a number of inspirational teachers throughout my school years who I looked up to and who supported me. I decided I wanted to do the same for others as well. I attended Catholic schools through eighth grade and they gave me very positive faith and academic foundations. I wanted to be part of that Christian-based environment. Therefore I made a commitment to Catholic education.

Q: What is it like being a teacher at your school?

A: Being a teacher at St. Francis is a very fulfilling experience each day. I work and laugh alongside the best colleagues — present and past — who are also committed to Catholic education. I work and laugh alongside great pre-teens who have goals, a great sense of humor and compassionate hearts. Each day is busy with lessons, projects and activities which support our school-wide goals. No day is the same as another and there are always challenges to be met.

Q: What are the best aspects of your job?

A: There are many great aspects about my job. Getting to know my students and forming those personal connections is crucial. Helping students grow in their faith journey and becoming future leaders in the church is very rewarding. And seeing them grow academically, seeing those “light bulbs” turn on consistently makes me very encouraged for my students’ futures.

Q: What are the biggest challenges you face?

A: Challenges in education seem pretty universal. There are never enough hours in the day to accomplish all of the things we want to do and are required to do. Resources are sometimes limited for us. That is why we greatly appreciate those who support us financially and through various types of service and volunteer work.

Q: What do you want readers to know about your job or your school?

A: I’d like people to know that St. Francis is a truly family and faith-centered school. The entire staff cares deeply about the well-being of our students and strives to find varied ways to serve them where they are at in their learning. It’s been a blessing to spend my career at MACS/St. Francis.

Q: What do you like to do in your spare time?

A: In my free time I love to spend time with my family as often as possible. I enjoy reading and walking. I also travel quite a bit with my husband. We’ve taken some great trips with friends and family and as I get closer to retirement we hope to do more.