Staff Spotlight, Jennifer Hammons,
Site Coordinator for West Clay Elementary School

As a site coordinator for West Clay Elementary, Jennifer Hammons brings a unique style to the newest Carmel Clay elementary school.

Education: B.A. Language Arts/Secondary Education, Indiana University

Experience: Student taught on Navajo Reservation including running the after-school dorm activities; taught 7th & 8th Grade Language Arts at IPS and Pike Township; ran after-school programs with Indy Parks for three years, as well as the K+ Program and Saturday Academy.

Q: Where did you grow up?
A: Evansville, IN

Q: What elementary school did you attend?
A: Dexter and Washington in Evansville.

Q: What is one of your favorite memories from elementary school?
A: Getting to take art class.

Q: What was your favorite subject in elementary school and why?
A: I loved art class because we were allowed to be creative and experiment.

Q: Why did you decide to study education in college or enter this field?
A: I love to learn new things and I love seeing that "a-ha" look in someone's eyes when they figure something out.

Q: What do you enjoy most about your job?
A: All the things the kids teach me, especially how to laugh and find wonderment in everything.

Q: What unique skills/talents do you apply to your job?
A: Not taking myself seriously.

Q: How do you handle a “bad” day?
A:  Go hang out with the kids.

Q: What do you hope your ESE participants take away from the program?
A: Enthusiasm for trying new things, and respect for themselves and others.

Q: Why/how do you think Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation is making a positive impact in the elementary schools?
A: I think we're all (adults and students) learning how to be flexible, adapt to changes and challenges and work as a team to get the most out of the day.

Q: Favorite quote/saying:
A: “Do I contradict myself? Very well then I contradict myself, (I am large, I contain multitudes.)” -Walt Whitman