Her Story
About Jennifer
Jennifer Ponsart is a dedicated Music Educator based in Waterloo, Iowa, with over two decades of experience in music instruction across private, charter, and public school settings. She currently serves as a Music Director in the Waterloo School District, where she leads middle school band programs while fostering students’ growth in musicianship, leadership, and social-emotional learning. With a teaching career spanning since 2003, she has built a strong foundation in developing well-rounded music programs that inspire lifelong engagement with the arts.
Jennifer holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Toccoa Falls College, a Master’s degree in Music Teacher Education from Central Washington University, and a Doctorate in Music Education from Liberty University, completed with high distinction in 2025. Her doctoral research, titled “Brain Functionality and Music Engagement: Understanding the Correlation Between Music Performance and the Healthy Mind,” reflects her passion for exploring the cognitive and sensory benefits of music learning. She is deeply committed to applying research-based insights in the classroom to enhance student engagement and musical development.
Before her extensive career in education, Jennifer gained valuable experience working at Walt Disney World in Orlando, where she developed a strong foundation in customer service and community engagement. She is also an active musician, primarily playing French horn and other brass instruments, and has participated in community ensembles and performance groups. Beyond her professional work, she is involved in professional music organizations and enjoys traveling, photography, and kayaking, all of which contribute to her creative and well-rounded approach to teaching and life.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Jennifer
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my faith, as God has guided me through every stage of my journey. I am also deeply grateful for my family and friends, whose support and encouragement keep me motivated and grounded.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is not to compare myself with others, but instead to focus on becoming better than I was yesterday.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering my industry is to look to other female leaders for inspiration and guidance, and to actively seek out those who are masters of their craft.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge in my field right now is ongoing budget cuts and limited funding for the arts, which can restrict programs, resources, and opportunities for both educators and students.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The most important values in my work and personal life are faith, as I am a Christian educator guided by my beliefs, and a commitment to lifelong learning in music, continually striving to grow in knowledge and deepen my understanding of the field.
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