By Brooke Larsen

It’s time for another “Where Do You Work?” Wednesday! This week meet alumnus Junior Jimenez (BA ’09, Elementary Education). 

Jimenez began his career in Davenport, Iowa at the Jefferson Elementary School. He worked there for six years, teaching fourth grade. Jimenez is now in his third year of teaching seventh through 12th grade Spanish at Columbus Community High School in Columbus Junction, Iowa. 

Jimenez says he always knew he wanted to be a teacher. 

“When I came to the University of Iowa, I had professors who believed in me and helped me become the educator I am today,” he says. “The courses I took and the cooperating teachers I was placed with have all made a huge impact in the educator I am today.” 

Jimenez’s grandmother always says if you do something you have a passion for, you will never work a day in your life. For Jimenez, teaching is it. 

“Ten years later, and I’m still excited to get up every morning and get to school,” he says. “The relationships I’ve build with my students and the feeling I get when they show their appreciation makes it all worth it.” 

Want to be the next “Where Do You Work Wednesday?” or nominate someone? Message us on Facebook, tag them with #HawkeyeTeachers, or email us at educationatiowa@uiowa.edu.