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BW alumna turns challenges into teaching success

Jordyn Rozek '22 transformed the global pandemic into a time of learning and growth that propelled her back into middle school at the head of the class.

 

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Jordyn Rozek '22 outside her classroom on her first day as a seventh-grade math and science teacher.

In the halls of Berea-Midpark Middle School, Jordyn Rozek '22 stands out for her dedication, passion and unwavering commitment to her students.

A proud product of North Royalton High School and Baldwin Wallace University, Rozek's journey from her hometown high school to the classrooms of Berea City Schools is marked by perseverance, leadership and a genuine desire to make a difference.

Rozek earned her credentials to become a teacher at BW, where she pursued a major in middle childhood education, focusing on math and science.

However, it took time to get there as she started her academic career at a different college and decided to transfer in 2019. 

Navigating Challenges, Finding Resilience

rozek-head-shot.jpgFinding the right college fit was one of several challenges she faced as an undergraduate.

"As many people [did], I attended college during COVID," Rozek states. "This made experiences within the education world difficult. BW was still able to get me in the classroom to get experiences I needed."

Her senior year presented an additional hurdle as she grappled with personal loss while juggling student teaching, campus leadership roles, classes and employment.

Yet, through it all, Rozek persevered, drawing strength from her determination to positively impact her students' lives. These experiences also enabled her to forge deeper connections with her students, understanding their backgrounds and challenges with empathy.

"[That experience] gave me the ability to relate to many of my students ... and give more grace in situations where grace is needed."

Empowering Young Minds

After graduating from BW in 2022, she emerged ready to impact young minds and shape the future of education, landing at the nearby Berea City Schools, where she serves as a middle school teacher.

In her first two years, Rozek has excelled in the classroom and extended her influence beyond its walls.

She has served as a volleyball coach, imparting athletic skills and valuable life lessons to her students. Additionally, her involvement in Camp-Mi-Bro-Be, a longstanding Berea City School District tradition, underscores her commitment to fostering holistic growth among her students.

Fostering Personal Growth, Community Engagement

Reflecting on her time at BW, Rozek acknowledges the University's pivotal role in shaping her into the educator she is today.

She hit the ground running after transferring, engaging in various leadership roles and extracurricular activities as a student director for new student orientation, president of the fraternity and sorority programming board, campus tour guide and student ambassador.

The breadth of her experiences helped her to hone her interpersonal skills and cultivate meaningful connections with people across Northeast Ohio.

Dedication beyond the classroom

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Jordyn Rozek (second from the right) with fellow teachers at a conference.

Beyond her professional achievements, Rozek has made significant contributions to her community, serving as a camp director for Brecksville Recreation for two years. Her dedication to nurturing young minds extends beyond the confines of the classroom, embodying the spirit of community engagement and service.

As Rozek continues to inspire and uplift the next generation, her journey is a testament to the transformative power of education and resilience. From her roots in North Royalton, Ohio, to her flourishing career in Berea City Schools, she exemplifies the potential within each individual to overcome adversity and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

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