By Jess Hawkins

It is the first Wednesday of the month and we are excited to introduce Alumna Jennifer Butz for this week’s “Where Do You Work?” Wednesday!

Originally from Des Moines, Iowa, Butz graduated from the University of Iowa College of Education in 1999 with a B.A. in Elementary Education. She then went on to get a Masters of Education in Instructional Leadership and Curriculum from the University of Oklahoma in 2004.

Since graduating from the College of Education, Butz’s career as a teacher has taken her all over the country and the world. She taught in Germany for six years and then taught in North Carolina for two years before returning to her hometown of Des Moines.

Butz is now teaching fifth grade at Samuelson Elementary School in Des Moines, Iowa.

“What I love most about my job are the ‘ah-ha’ moments my students get, and also instilling a life-long learning or curiosity beyond the classroom,” says Butz. “I also enjoy our teaming environment, where the students take responsibility for their learning, support each other, and celebrate their successes.”

Butz says that her time at the College of Education prepared her for the variety of experiences that she has had both with her students and in different cultures.

“My education at Iowa prepared me with the tools to be successful and adapting to various situations,” she says.

“My professors taught me the importance of relationships, both with students and with colleagues, and that's something that I've carried with me throughout my career. I’m proud to be a Hawkeye Alum!”

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