Jackie Kimmell
Jackie Kimmell is an experienced educator with the Bellflower Unified School District and more than 32 years of teaching experience dedicated to elementary education and instructional excellence. Her career in education began as a substitute teacher, where she quickly developed a strong foundation in classroom management and student engagement, ultimately leading to a full-time teaching position. She currently teaches third grade and has built her career from the ground up within the classroom, demonstrating long-term commitment, consistency, and a deep passion for student learning.
In her daily practice, Jackie begins each school day by greeting students, organizing classroom routines, and guiding them into a structured learning environment. She teaches across all core subject areas, designing lessons that are engaging, interactive, and tailored to keep students motivated while maintaining strong behavioral expectations. Her ability to balance structure with creativity has made her highly effective in the classroom. One of her most notable achievements came in the years following the COVID-19 pandemic, when her students earned the highest test scores in the district—an accomplishment that reflects her resilience and instructional effectiveness during a challenging time in education.
Beyond her classroom responsibilities, Jackie is also deeply committed to union work, which she performs voluntarily out of a strong dedication to her colleagues and the teaching profession. Her contributions and advocacy were formally recognized in 2024 when she received the WHO Award (We Honor Our Own). In addition to her classroom leadership, she brings her expertise in curriculum development and instructional design to support broader educational initiatives, including her work in learning development and program improvement within the school district.
• Walden University - MA, Reading and Literacy
• California State University, Long Beach - BA, Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies
• Highest test scores in the district (a couple years ago
• After COVID)
• WHO Award (We Honor Our Own) from union in 2024
• California Teachers Association
• National Education Association
• Union Work
What do you attribute your success to?
She attributes her success to the passion and love that she has for the field, as she has been happily in this field for the entire career and stared out substitute teaching. She loves being able to teach these amazing children and is teaching 3rd grade students so that she can set them up for success which brings her extreme joy. She has worked very hard to make a difference in the lives of these students and has received the Highest Test Scores in the district after covid and has also received in 2022 The WHO Award in her volunteer work with the union which she spends countless hours volunteering.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is that I can make a meaningful difference in the world through my work. I have carried this belief throughout my career in education, and it continues to guide everything I do. As a teacher, instructional designer, and lifelong educator, I understand that my greatest impact comes from teaching and shaping the next generation. Every lesson I design, every classroom I lead, and every student I support is an opportunity to contribute to their growth, confidence, and future success. Knowing that my work helps prepare young learners to become capable, thoughtful, and empowered individuals gives purpose to my career and motivates me to continue making a lasting difference.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the education field is to believe in the value and impact of this profession from the very beginning. You can have a successful and fulfilling career as a teacher while also making a meaningful difference in the lives of children every single day. This work requires patience, resilience, creativity, and heart, but it also offers incredible rewards as you watch students grow, learn, and discover their potential. Stay committed to continuous learning, build strong relationships with your students and colleagues, and never underestimate the influence you have in shaping the next generation.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in education today is ensuring that every student receives a high-quality, equitable learning experience while navigating evolving standards, increased classroom demands, and the lasting academic and social impacts of post-pandemic learning gaps. In my role as a teacher for the past 32 years with the Bellflower Unified School District, I have remained deeply committed to working hard each day to adapt instruction, strengthen engagement, and ensure that my students receive the best education possible. At the same time, the field presents meaningful opportunities through advancements in educational technology, data-driven instruction, and innovative curriculum design, all of which allow educators to better support diverse learners and personalize learning experiences.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that matter most to me in my work and personal life center around making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. In my career as a teacher with the Bellflower Unified School District for the past 32 years, I am deeply committed to ensuring that my students receive the best possible education and support so they can grow, succeed, and reach their full potential. I also value service and advocacy through my volunteer work with the union, where I support my colleagues and help strengthen the teaching profession. Outside of work, I prioritize balance, health, and joy in my personal life by staying active at the gym and participating in activities I love, including Zumba and swing dancing classes.