In 2020, Vestavia Hills City Schools (VHCS) established the school system’s “Hall of Fame,” in order to honor retired school employees who positively impacted the lives of their fellow educators and students. Only five inductees are chosen each year. Jennifer Greer, who taught special education for 25 years, was one of the 2023 inductees. Here, she offers her gratitude for her induction.
Tell our readers about yourself.
I am happily married to Ben Greer, and together, we are blessed with five children: Erin, Kaitlyn, Cade, Megan and Garret. We adopted Garret when he was 11 years old, following the passing of both his parents. Garret, who has Down syndrome, has brought an abundance of love and joy into our family. We are actively involved in serving our church community at Church of the Highlands. Personally, I lead a women’s small group, providing support and guidance for other mothers of adult children with disabilities. Professionally, I am privileged to serve as the Director of Post Place–a campus of Unless U.
Why did you choose to teach special education?
During high school, I had the opportunity to volunteer at a center for children with disabilities, where I worked closely with a little girl with Down syndrome. During my first couple of days, I spent time pushing her on the swing. Then, I decided to sit down next to her and teach her to swing herself. I vividly remember the joy and pride she expressed when she learned to swing independently. At that moment, I realized that I wanted to dedicate my life to helping children with disabilities become more independent and reach their fullest potential.
How did you hope to inspire or impact your students from within the walls of your classroom?
Focusing on my students’ abilities rather than their disabilities was a fundamental approach in my classroom. My main focus was to first form relationships with my students, making sure they felt loved and celebrated. I believe that a strong foundation of trust and respect is essential for effective teaching and learning.
What moments from your career solidified your purpose as an educator?
When I first started teaching, my students were all self-contained into one classroom. Witnessing the isolation my students faced saddened me deeply. I sought permission from school administration and fellow teachers to gradually integrate my students into the general education classroom setting, starting with physical education. We progressed to elective classes and other school activities. Additionally, I initiated the Pizitz Pirate Partner program, pairing students with unique abilities with their peers and helping foster friendships and inclusion. Over time, I watched my students become cheerleaders, dance team members, part of the football and wrestling teams and even school ambassadors. One of the most rewarding moments in my teaching career was witnessing three of my students graduate high school and attend college. Seeing Jake Pratt at Clemson University, Davis Spain at the University of Alabama and Grace Davis at Auburn University thrive in college environments was immensely gratifying.
What did it feel like being inducted into the VHCS 2023 Hall of Fame?
I was completely overwhelmed with emotion and gratitude. To be chosen among such incredible and outstanding colleagues and teachers in Vestavia Hills was truly humbling. It was an honor that I will always cherish.
