For Jennie McLeod, education has always been about connection, consistency, and creating a classroom where students feel valued. Now entering her fourth year at Stillwater High School, McLeod has quickly made an impact teaching English II, III, and IV, with an exciting addition on the horizon as she prepares to introduce a new True Crime and Media course next year, an opportunity that blends her personal interests with her passion for engaging students in meaningful ways.
McLeod’s path to the classroom was shaped by her own experiences as a student. She credits two educators in particular for inspiring her approach. Her freshman and sophomore English teacher, Ms. Elsener, stood out for being authentic and relatable, while her Home Economics teacher, Mrs. Porter, created an environment where learning and laughter went hand in hand. Those influences helped shape McLeod’s philosophy, one centered on treating students with the same care and respect she would want for her own children.
Before arriving at Stillwater, McLeod built a diverse teaching background in Altus, Oklahoma, where she worked with a wide range of grade levels, from kindergarten and first grade to seventh grade English and high school English courses. That experience gave her a unique perspective and adaptability that she brings into her high school classroom today.
At the core of her work is a genuine love for students. McLeod finds the greatest reward in building relationships and watching her students grow, not just academically, but as individuals. Seeing them succeed and develop into good, compassionate people is what continues to drive her each day.
Outside the classroom, McLeod values time spent with her family. She and her husband Brent have been married for 31 years, and together they have two daughters, Megan and Bailey, along with son-in-law Josh. Whether it’s reading a good book, diving into true crime shows and podcasts, or simply enjoying time with her family, she embraces every opportunity to recharge.
A self-proclaimed wrestling enthusiast, McLeod brings that same enthusiasm into her life and classroom, adding another layer to the personality her students have come to appreciate.
