Whether it’s training for an intense ultramarathon, living in a van out in nature for two weeks, or just cozying up to read some classic Jane Austen, Ms. Jenna Fagan loves nothing more than being outdoors and learning new things. Her latest adventure has taken her to North Penn High school as the newest American history and Advanced Placement Psychology teacher.
Psychology as a whole is one of the most popular AP classes at North Penn High School. For Ms. Fagan, it was a complete surprise that she would be teaching the course. Fagan was educated in history, and AP Psychology was a different course than she had initially planned to teach. Still, she has found enthusiasm and passion within it regardless.
“Psychology falls under the social studies umbrella when it comes to teaching certifications in the state of Pennsylvania. What draws me to it is just having a better understanding of ourselves,” Fagan said.
Fagan is very excited to have the opportunity to teach a class that is a little bit more scientific than the historical facts she was professionally trained in. Fagan is also thrilled that her schedule allows her the chance to teach all three grades here at North Penn High School.
“I am definitely having fun in psychology in a way that I’m not necessarily used to having fun in history. I get to do experiments and flex different parts of my brain that I don’t necessarily use in history,” Fagan explained.
Fagan explored her love of history when she went to Lehigh University and graduated with a Master’s in history. Teaching, however, became her passion when she had the opportunity to teach undergraduates.
Not only was it her first time teaching, but it was also during the COVID-19 pandemic. Fagan believes that the type of teacher that she pictured herself becoming was totally changed by the challenges and adaptations she had to face.
“I had this idea of very rigorous and highly academic standards, but now I see them as ultra arbitrary standards,” Fagan said.
As important as structure and testing is, Fagan puts most of her emphasis on her student’s understanding of the material and making sure they feel cared about.
“It was more important for me that they understood the material than if they understood it on test day. I want them to enjoy the subject just as much as I love teaching it,” Fagan explained.
Overall, Fagan knows that her class is not the only class her students are taking. She wants them to feel comfortable asking for help and know that they are being supported in her class, making it a manageable part of their schedules.
Along with being a new teacher here at North Penn High School, Ms. Fagan is also an avid adventurer and loves to spend much of her time outdoors. Two years ago, she lived out in a van during a two week trip to Yosemite and Sequoia national parks in California.
“Our van allowed us access to trails and pieces of the park that we may not have had access to if we were in a more traditional RV. It was awesome,” Fagan expressed with enthusiasm.
Whether it’s teaching a new class or traveling across the country, Fagan isn’t afraid of an adventure or adapting to a new environment.
Coming from a much smaller school herself, Fagan is a big fan of the community at North Penn High School. At first, the size did seem a little intimidating, but the opportunity to meet so many people has made it all worth it.
“I think with its size, there’s so many opportunities for people to be involved in the North Penn community, which is awesome,” Fagan said enthusiastically.
Fagan is ecstatic to see where the year will take her and is already so grateful for all the wonderful people she has met.
“Everybody that I’ve met has been so gracious, helpful, and kind. I just feel like I got the best job in the world and I feel so lucky,” Fagan expressed.
Ms. Fagan’s empathy towards her students and excitement for the courses she teaches will most definitely make her a wonderful addition to the North Penn community.