By Sara Nelson

Happy “Where Do You Work?” Wednesday! This week meet alumna Jodi Banse (BA ’98 Elementary Education, specialization in reading).

Banse is the principal of DeSoto Intermediate School, a 3rd through 5th grade building serving 465 students in DeSoto, Iowa. She has been in the Adel DeSoto Minburn (ADM) school district since 2001, and prior to that worked for both private and public schools in Chicago.

“The greatest joy I receive in my position is working alongside the most talented group of educators imaginable.   The 50 staff members at DeSoto Intermediate are the most dedicated group of people,” says Banse. “We believe in differentiated learning to meet the students’ needs, and celebrating learning targets at the individual, group, and building levels drive our work.”

Banse is thankful to the University of Iowa College of Education for giving her opportunities to work hands-on with students while still in school.

“I remember working directly with students at an early stage in my undergraduate studies.  Being in the classroom and having opportunities to reflect and revise my teaching with fellow students and professors was extremely valuable,” says Banse.  “When I graduated from the University of Iowa, I felt equipped with strategies and tools to make a positive impact on the lives of children.”

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.