Becoming Who He is Today

Mr. Jeffords has always lived in Cedar Rapids, and his career of teaching began at Kirkwood and Coe College. After four years at those schools, he left Iowa to attend Walden University for his Masters Degree in science. At 24 years old, Jeffords realized he wanted to become a teacher to coach sports and teach middle school. Jeffords got his first teaching job at St. Patricks Middle School, then McKinley Middle School, and where he is now employed, Franklin Middle School. For 19 years he has been teaching, and he enjoys the surprises of teaching, and getting to coach his favorite sports.

What Effect Does Mr. Jeffords Have on the Kids?

I had spoken to many kids, and lots had said that their favorite teacher is Mr. Jeffords. Lots of students enjoy having him as a coach, a teacher, and just a friend. People always want to stop and see him, just to say hi, for advice, and for laughs. Mr. Jeffords makes kids feel like they are the most important thing in the world.

Sofia B. spoke to me, and although she doesn't have him as a teacher this year, she had Mr. Jeffords as a coach for soccer. She said, "I just liked how he was so relaxed. He's just like the nicest person."
Kendal S. said she likes how Mr. Jeffords keeps things fun and new, and that he doesn't do things that are boring.

This is just a few examples of how each student connects with J in a different, but positive way.
He really impacts this school in an amazing way. He comforts and welcomes kids with open arms, but he's still persistent to make sure kids are learning.

The Best Part of Teaching

Mr. Jeffords and I had spoken, and he told me many stories of his teachings. But one thing he told me really stood out. He said he liked teaching, so he can learn who the kids really are.
Kids from Franklin come from all walks of life, and Mr. Jeffords has a goal to know each and every one of their stories. The way he speaks and connects with kids is what he loves the most. Yes, sometimes kids are difficult, but he is determined to learn why they act out, and how he can help them.
It's like these kids are his family. He has a special relationship with each and every one of them.

The Biggest Challenge

Oh god! I've been called down to the cafeteria again. I used to get surprised by these called, but after teaching for so long, I've gotten used to it. A girl fight.

Once the hair is pulled, all gloves are off. All of the kids are huddled into corners when I arrive. Some are laughing, some are scared, and others have their phones out to capture the scene. I don't like to get involved in these things, but I feel like I'm really helping everyone in the chaos.

Cursing and clawing, the girls try to get at each other as best as possible before I break up the fight. Once I come in, it's over for them. I grab one girl by the arm and pin her, so that the violence stops. But then the other one pounces, hoping that she has a shot to hurt the girl I've got. I stop her from coming at us, and she gets pulled away by a cop. The other girl has already thrown in the towel.

"Thank goodness, this doesn't happen often," I say to myself.

Him??

Why would I choose to make a blog about Mr. Jeffords? He might not be famously known throughout the nation, but he is famous for being one of the best teachers at Franklin Middle School.
Mr. Jeffords has a way to change kids. He can get any child to learn being he approaches learning in a creative way. Kids always want to stop in to say hello to him, and I always hear kids saying, "I can't wait for science/social studies with Mr. Jeffords!"
He is a very laid back and open teacher, so kids can get comfortable and not feel too much pressure from school. He has nicknames for every kid, and he tries to get to know each child personally. He really is an amazing person, and that is why I chose J-Man for this project.