University High School Teacher Named National Marine Educators Association Teacher of the Year

ORANGE CITY – Jennifer Cherry, a Marine Science and AP Environmental Science teacher at University High School, has been named the 2020 Outstanding Teacher of the Year by the National Marine Educators Association (NMEA).

The annual national award is presented for effective and innovative classroom teaching at any level from elementary school through high school and awarded during the NMEA’s annual conference.

Cherry teaches students in AP Environmental Science and Cambridge International Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE) Marine Science and Marine Science Honors courses. She created and sponsored the Ecology Club where students participate in volunteer programs such as the Ocean Conservancy Ocean Clean Up Day and other volunteer programs. She also sponsors University High School’s Earth and Surf Club and Envirothon Team. She is currently pursuing a double master’s degree in Environmental Leadership and Environmental Management.

Cherry inspires her students, colleagues, administrators, and community members with her commitment to and enthusiasm for the marine environment, the nomination said. She uses art, science, photography, volunteerism, adopting endangered species, beach cleanups, and estuarine studies in her classroom teaching to engage her students.

Volusia County Schools’ vision is to create life-long learners prepared for an ever-changing global society. The VCS Strategic Plan can be found at vcsedu.org/strategic-plan.