In an effort to honor the outstanding educators who toil tirelessly to give students in the Jackson Parish school system the best education possible, the Jackson Parish School District (JPSD) is pleased to continue the weekly educator recognition program, “Who We Are Wednesday.”

Each Wednesday, one of the JPSD faculty members will be recognized for their tremendous commitment, dedication, and excellence in the classroom, which helps our local youth prepare for their future endeavors. This week, Jared Carpenter, who is in his fourth year of serving students in Jonesboro-Hodge High School. is honored as “Staff Standout.”

Jared loves that teaching math is about more than numbers and formulas. For him, it’s about equipping students with skills that will carry them far beyond the classroom—skills for perseverance, confidence, and long-term success after school.

One of his most memorable moments came at the end of a school year when a student, convinced they were going to fail, had to make up a final quiz. After some encouragement, the student agreed to try their best—and ended up earning a score that raised their grade to a passing grade. When the student thanked Jared for “giving” them the grade, Jared shared something powerful: he didn’t give them anything—they earned it through their hard work. Being able to help a student realize they were capable of accomplishing what once felt impossible is exactly why he teaches.

Jared credits Jane Watson, his iTeach observer, as an educator who significantly impacted his journey into teaching. You would be able to catch Jared working in digital media if he weren’t busy being an educator. Outside of school, he enjoys spending time with his family and being outdoors.

Join the Jackson Parish School District in celebrating Jared Carpenter as this week’s “Staff Standout.”