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Always a Girl Scout...
For a few years running, I worked with Jennifer as part of the Enrichment Grant review process. She was an integral part of the collaborative Enrichment Grant review process with all the MI PTA's, MISF and the District. She was so knowledgeable and helpful during this process and an absolutely incredible asset to the team ensuring that we could find funding for teachers' grants requests.

I would sometimes run into Jennifer at local Girl Scout events and learned that she was a lifetime Girl Scout. We talked about her strong belief in the Girl Scout experience and the positive impact being a Girl Scout had on her own life.  I believe she truly exemplified the Girl Scout Law -
'I will do my best to be honest and fair, friendly and helpful, considerate and caring, courageous and strong, and responsible for what I say and do, and to respect myself and others, respect authority, use resources wisely, make the world a better place, and be a sister to every Girl Scout.'
~Greta

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Jennifer was an incredible person. I was blessed to have Mrs. Wright as a teacher growing up on MI, and then as a supportive administrator as a teacher at MIHS/ Crest. I always appreciated her interest in cool technology, her support of her son and the MIHS band, as well as her support of Crest. Jennifer saw in teachers and students more than other people observed. She was always there to help problem solve and listen. I am incredibly sorry for the loss of Jennifer. Shannon Miller (Verschueren)

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Jennifer was an incredible person. I was blessed to have Mrs. Wright as a teacher growing up on MI, and then as a supportive administrator as a teacher at MIHS/ Crest. I always appreciated her interest in cool technology, her support of her son and the MIHS band, as well as her support of Crest. Jennifer saw in teachers and students more than other people observed. She was always there to help problem solve and listen. I am incredibly sorry for the loss of Jennifer. Shannon Miller (Verschueren)

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I worked for the district for 29 years but did not have the opportunity to work with Jennifer directly . However, Jennifer did teach all 3 of my children as they went through the MI schools. My children had only positive things to tell me. I am sure one of my kids was a handful but again always positive. She will certainly be missed.
Barb H.

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Jennifer was such an inspiration as a teacher, a leader and a community member.
She always showed that relationships were first, but never let you down when it came to getting stuff done.
I have the clearest memories of her writing things down in her graph paper notebooks. I knew that if a task was put down in that notebook, it would get done. I was also always so intimidated by the amount of tasks she had written down in there! Tasks from tech, ILT, her college courses, different schools, every meeting with all the individuals she constantly made time for... They all got done.
But at the end of the day, I'll always remember how welcome she would make me feel. Whether it was connecting about my own life, telling stories about hers or giving updates on some of the students we shared, she always left our conversations on good notes about good people.
Patrick

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Jennifer was one of the best educators I know. She was always so excited about something new that she learned and couldn’t wait to share it with her colleagues all across the district. And her tech presentations at our back-to-school events were so creative and so joyous. I am so sorry that she is no longer here to instill in us that love for learning and technology, but she has left so many of us richer for having known her. We love you, Jennifer.
Vicky Mann

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In Jennifer's time, typically the first day back from summer break was Tech Day. She'd kick off the day with a presentation about the most recent technological tools and gadgets. I came to highly anticipate her presentations. She'd always get the crowd, be in awe of what technology had to offer, and leave us energized about the coming year --quite a feat for our first return to work day!

Jennifer truly was a remarkable educator and leader. She recognized everyone's humanity, treated others with dignity, and inspired others to be their best. I'm so glad to have known her.
Tani

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Jennifer and I first met as a fellow marching band moms, and then later, when I was a a 45 year old, first year teacher. Jennifer was uniquely gifted in relieving stress, making the thorny problems seem less complicated, with a camaraderie that welcomed us all in. She made it all seem utterly fine, fixable, funny even. And her tech day presentations were legendary. Thank you for all the easy smiles, the simple solutions to complex questions, and your endless patience. Thank you for your creativity, and your humanity. You are missed!

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Shortly after I started in the district, Julie Hovind and I received Gates Foundation grants for a 4:1 laptop cart each. Since we team taught, Jennifer suggested that we share the laptops reducing the ratio to 2:1. She supported us with the process of setting up educational technology in our shared classes. Her wisdom, kindness, logic and wonderful sense of humor helped us through the growing pains of tech integration. If it were not for Jennifer, our district would not have been one of the first to implement a 1:1 device policy. Visionary!

Also, the Jetsons tech day was absolutely perfect for our generation. The world is a better place because Jennifer was in it!!!
-Julie Langley

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Jennifer was one of a kind! She was always willing to share new technologies and went out of her way to get those new ideas into the classrooms. Every committee that Jen was running, I always made sure that I could be a member of it! Rest in Peace my friend - you are missed!
-Stephanie JL

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Thank you, Jennifer, for being a friend, a mentor, story-teller, and supporter. You were an excellent physics teacher, advocate for teachers and students, and the best colleague anyone could ask for. You never forgot that playing is learning, and vice versa. I miss you, your big, joyful heart, and your amazing brain too. Patty Weston

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Thank you, Jennifer, for being a friend, a mentor, story-teller, and supporter. You were an excellent physics teacher, advocate for teachers and students, and the best colleague anyone could ask for. You never forgot that playing is learning, and vice versa. I miss you, your big, joyful heart, and your amazing brain too. Patty Weston

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Jennifer was a wonderful person to work with. She was thoughtful, highly capable, and willing to try new ways to reach and ignite the creativity in students. She made a difference in this world!

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Her encouragement, guidance, and support helped push my career in directions I didn’t think possible.

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Jennifer was such an amazing person who worked tirelessly to support our students; but more importantly us as staff.  She was quick to provide help/answers and if she couldn't answer a question, she found the answer to it anyway.  She brought a magical spark to technology learning, that I didn't know I needed as a first year teacher at tech day. Thank you Jennifer for all you did for us!
-Katie

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Jennifer was a master communicator who made the tech day presentations fun and educational. Her positivity, humor and depth of knowledge was a treasure to MISD. She will be sorely missed by all of us who had the pleasure to work with her in the district. I hope we can all take comfort in the good memories we have of her and the wonderful contributions she made to our work and lives. -Sally

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Jennifer was a master communicator who made the tech day presentations fun and educational. Her positivity, humor and depth of knowledge was a treasure to MISD. She will be sorely missed by all of us who had the pleasure to work with her in the district. I hope we can all take comfort in the good memories we have of her and the wonderful contributions she made to our work and lives. -Sally

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It's hard to write about Jennifer in the past tense because she's been so present in this district and our lives for so long. She left a legacy that cannot be matched. I am grateful to her for professionally advancing my career and being a female role model and pioneer. She freely gave her time to people when so much was on her plate. We are lucky to have worked with such a beautiful person. Jennifer will be sorely missed.

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Jennifer will always have a special place in our hearts. The world has lost an amazing person who will live on within all the hearts she has touched. We will miss you.

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Jennifer once covered my kindergarten class and was delighted to learn that the Helper of the Day was called, The Big Cheese.  This cracked her up and every so often, she'd buy a box of Extra Large Cheese It crackers and pass them to me during a meeting.  Of course, with a big smile and a twinkle in her eye!

She was one in a million and we are all the better for having known her.  Lori deStwolinski

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For an Old Dog having a hard time Learning New "Tricks" I say thank you, Jennifer. She and Patti North at Crest helped me learn so very much in Tech and with patience and enthusiasm.
Her wit and Science knowledge gave her a high seat in my life- just enjoyed sharing and listening. I can see her smile and hear her voice. What a loss. Prayers to her husband and son. Patricia

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Jennifer's impact on those around her was epic. Her work ethic, comradery, organization and innovation were epic. Her humility was epic. Her love for Diet Coke, The BBC IT Crowd, Girl Scouts and most of all, her family was epic. I feel incredibly fortunate to have landed in a place where I not only got to know her when I was a classroom teacher, but also got the privilege later on to be on her close-knit instructional tech team for 10 years. There will never be another Jennifer.
-Kara Millsap

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Jennifer was the best.  During a time in the early 2000s when there was controversy in the district, Jennifer was unfailingly friendly, warm, fun, funny, smart and gave great guidance, while always staying out of the muck and not taking sides.  Every time I ran into her in the admin building or at Island Park where our kids both were in school, she lifted my heart.  I'm so sad to hear she's gone.  She touched the lives of so many of us.  Thank you, Jennifer! - xo, Carrie

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Jennifer was the best.  During a time in the early 2000s when there was controversy in the district, Jennifer was unfailingly friendly, warm, fun, funny, smart and gave great guidance, while always staying out of the muck and not taking sides.  Every time I ran into her in the admin building or at Island Park where our kids both were in school, she lifted my heart.  I'm so sad to hear she's gone.  She touched the lives of so many of us.  Thank you, Jennifer! - xo, Carrie

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Jennifer's incredible patience with those of us who were always having techy issues was always greatly appreciated. Jennifer always had a smile on her face and approached every situation with a calm, supportive, can- do attitude. She was always there to lend an ear to problem solving of chaotic situations. While she wore so many hats... supporting schools... she was always there for the students of MISD. Every decision she made was for the benefit of every student.
Jennifer always had a special heart for girls who were interested in science, math and technology. I loved that about Jennifer. I could also always count on her to help with school events like Band Field Trips, and Islander Day at MIHS!!!!!  Many thanks for Jennifer's family who shared her with the MISD family. She will be dearly missed!!!
Vicki, Former Principal at MIHS

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I looked forward to Tech Day every year to hear what Jennifer had to share! Kris

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I looked forward to Tech Day every year to hear what Jennifer had to share! Kris

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She was my physics teacher.  I really struggled, but she wouldn't let me fail.  Jennifer came up with all kinds of strategies to try to capture my abilities and finally came up with some out of the box solutions.  What could have been a really awful educational experience turned into one that I truly think back on and feel proud of.  I am forever grateful for the time and effort she dedicated to me. In a time when I often felt invisible she saw me.  She was a remarkable educator. 

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She was my physics teacher.  I really struggled, but she wouldn't let me fail.  Jennifer came up with all kinds of strategies to try to capture my abilities and finally came up with some out of the box solutions.  What could have been a really awful educational experience turned into one that I truly think back on and feel proud of.  I am forever grateful for the time and effort she dedicated to me. In a time when I often felt invisible she saw me.  She was a remarkable educator. 

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Jennifer was, if nothing else, such a forward facing person-she was a real role model for me and I enjoyed working with her. The way you know someone has had an impact is if there is a smile left in your heart when you remember your time with them. One of the best of us.
ccr

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Jennifer could get anyone interested in new technology....even me! I loved her presentations at the beginning of Tech Day. She had such a lovely combination of know how and humor. Her class on Homeroom was the first time I truly understood how to use the program. She was that good of a teacher, too.   -Trina

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Jennifer could get anyone interested in new technology....even me! I loved her presentations at the beginning of Tech Day. She had such a lovely combination of know how and humor. Her class on Homeroom was the first time I truly understood how to use the program. She was that good of a teacher, too.   -Trina

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I worked with Jennifer for 12 years, and interacted with her a couple dozen times. Every time I walked through the doorway, she treated me like the most important person in the world. That's how she was--always gave the utmost respect and kindness to everybody. A wonderful, bright star. 

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I worked with Jennifer for 12 years, and interacted with her a couple dozen times. Every time I walked through the doorway, she treated me like the most important person in the world. That's how she was--always gave the utmost respect and kindness to everybody. A wonderful, bright star. 

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Jennifer was one of the first people I met when I was hired in 2011. She was immediately warm and welcoming, and clearly a supporter of the arts. I would look forward to her jokes and wit during her opening talks at Tech Day. She was a leader for many, and her presence is felt in numerous ways. -Daniela

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Jennifer was one of the first people I met when I was hired in 2011. She was immediately warm and welcoming, and clearly a supporter of the arts. I would look forward to her jokes and wit during her opening talks at Tech Day. She was a leader for many, and her presence is felt in numerous ways. -Daniela

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I was so lucky to partner with her in September of 1997. We shared several students, and she was determined that they would find success in science.  She was all about equity before equity became a thing.  I was so lucky to watch and learn from one of the best teachers at MI.   She always available to me and I am so grateful to have known her. Andrea

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I was so lucky to partner with her in September of 1997. We shared several students, and she was determined that they would find success in science.  She was all about equity before equity became a thing.  I was so lucky to watch and learn from one of the best teachers at MI.   She always available to me and I am so grateful to have known her. Andrea

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I was never lucky enough to have Jennifer as a teacher at MIHS but my friends did. She knew my name and cared about me none the less. Happy that I got to work along side her at MISD. Go Broncos.. just this once for Jennifer.
Mindi

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When I was considering what to do with my life, I felt deep down that I should go into education, but there was always a part of me that didn’t think I would be successful in the field.  There are very few people in this world who I knew would always have my back and guide me in the correct direction, and Jennifer was one of those people.  She pushed me, knowing that I had it in me, to go into the field of education.  Without Jennifer, my life would be completely different, and I am sure that I would never have the same feeling of accomplishment I have now without her.  She wasn’t just a give to MISD, but a gift to the world.  I know that wherever she is now, she will run the place in no time.

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There simply aren’t a lot of humans in this world like Jennifer. She was a light in our district and a spectacular mentor to me (who would imagine a pairing of Fred and Jennifer as leaders in LS, what an opposite pairing!). Above all, she was genuinely one of the kindest, most thoughtful people I know.

Jennifer broke gender barriers long before it was accepted. AND she did it both directly and with kindness. While education was not her first career, I am so thankful we had her for a time. She embodied the belief that students are the priority.  I am also thankful to call her my friend. My heart is heavy with her loss, but thankful that she does not have to experience the pain of this world any longer.

This loss will shake many of us for a long time. For those who didn’t know her, I can only hope you’ll meet a Jennifer in your lifetime who is as great as ours. ❤️

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I didn't directly work with Jennifer on a regular basis, but I always felt like she knew who I was and was supportive of my career.  She was kind to all and a staple at Mercer Island, all the way back to my days as a student.  Her loss is profound.  -Gavin

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Even though Jennifer was an administrator, she knew who you were and called you by name. She was respectful, kind, and listened to your ideas. When Jennifer was in charge, you knew sh!# got done accurately and in a timely manner. I loved going to Tech Day just to hear Jennifer give the opening speech. Through her speeches, she inspired me to learn about emerging technologies and to integrate technology in useful ways into my classroom. I will never forget what she did for this District and me. It will be a long time that someone else like her comes around. -Shelley

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Such an amazing light and inspiration!!!!

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Such an amazing light and inspiration!!!!

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I cannot even begin to express my love and admiration for Jennifer. She had so many amazing ideas, insights, stories, connections, and more. I met her when I came to the district, she came to my classroom to observe a lesson with our new science curriculum. She came on Halloween as I was teaching, dressed as the mouse from "If You Give a Mouse a Cookie." She was truly a treasure and has left an impact on so many students, families, lives, and more.

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Jennifer was always focused on what was best for students and she worked incredibly well with adults.  She was always looking to make things better for everyone she worked with. She was the best of MISD.

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I was blessed to work under Jennifer's leadership at MI. My coaching colleagues and I loved this woman like no other because she was patient, kind and wicked smart, among many other superlatives. I am a technology director because of her. Thank you, Jennifer. I'll see you on the other side some day...
--Justin

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Jennifer was a wonderful human.  She was one of the first people that I met when I started at MISD in 1999.  She was always welcoming, funny, generous and promoted a sense of belonging.  Her tech presentations were outstanding. She was a gift to MISD.
-Julie

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She wore so many hats with a smile on her face. Incredible lady of knowledge. Blessings to her husband and son. Katty

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As a woman coming in to the field of education, she was an incredible role model.  Intelligent and well spoken, she lead the district forward in the optimal ways to educate and empower our learners.  She held the trust of our entire staff without demanding it.  Thank you for your service to the district and all of the staff and students over the years. -Nicole

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Jennifer had the BEST clips at Tech. Day ("The IT Crowd" & "Back to the Future"). She was always funny, smart, and made tech fun. She indeed did epic shit, and will be greatly missed. I am so sorry for your loss. Love, Alice

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Jennifer had the BEST clips at Tech. Day ("The IT Crowd" & "Back to the Future"). She was always funny, smart, and made tech fun. She indeed did epic shit, and will be greatly missed. I am so sorry for your loss. Love, Alice

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Jennifer was amazing. I could email her about anything and she would either point me in the right direction or take care of it for me. She would volunteer whenever she could get away. I got to know her when our boys were at Island Park and she was always so kind and welcoming. What a loss for Mercer Island. - Monica

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Jennifer was amazing. I could email her about anything and she would either point me in the right direction or take care of it for me. She would volunteer whenever she could get away. I got to know her when our boys were at Island Park and she was always so kind and welcoming. What a loss for Mercer Island. - Monica

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Jennifer was patient with me, kind and funny. She always knew what I needed and when I needed it most. I was a young administrator who relied heavily on our veterans in the district and Jennifer Wright was so thoughtful with her time and energy with me. I am in her debt. - Nick

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Jennifer was so amazing! She would turn boring topics into a magical universe where everyone would be excited to learn! A true loss for those who did not get a chance to be in her presence..... - Donna

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Jennifer was so amazing! She would turn boring topics into a magical universe where everyone would be excited to learn! A true loss for those who did not get a chance to be in her presence..... - Donna

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Jennifer and I were founding members of DAD and still welcome new members- Directors Against Dogs. Slogan: "We love your dog just don't want one ourselves." -Fred

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Without Jennifer's mentorship and support, I would not be the superintendent of MISD today. -Fred