Jenna Shaver
Jenna joins our staff working previously as a special education teacher in a self-contained mild intellectual disabilities classroom in the Mesa Public School District. She brings a wealth of experience and passion to Polaris Academy. Graduating Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor’s degree in elementary and special education from ASU, she has dedicated herself to empowering students to reach their full potential. Born and raised in the Netherlands before relocating to Mesa, AZ at the age of 14, teaching has been a lifelong dream and she is committed to ongoing professional growth, particularly in the field of assistive technology.
Her mission is to empower every student through personalized support and a nurturing environment, guided by values of inclusivity, equity, collaboration, advocacy, growth mindset, individualized support, compassion, and lifelong learning. In her classroom, she will employ differentiated instruction, comprehensive assessment, and IEP/SEP development to tailor learning experiences to each student’s unique needs. She excels in implementing positive behavior support strategies and fostering a supportive classroom environment that encourages all students to thrive. Effective communication and collaboration with students, families, and colleagues are central to her approach, ensuring inclusivity and understanding. Her proficiency in specialized instructional techniques, assistive technology, and cultural competence enables Ms. Shaver to meet the diverse needs of her students.
Outside the classroom, Jenna finds joy in various interests and hobbies that enrich her life. Whether indulging in crafting, particularly crochet, or spending quality time with her energetic one-year-old and imaginative four-year-old, family remains her priority. She enjoys embarking on adventures to Disneyland and traveling to discover new cultures and experiences. In her leisure time, she relishes paddle boarding, swimming, and tending to her indoor jungle of plants. These pursuits bring balance and fulfillment to her life, complementing her dedication to special education.