Jennings Ryder Pride

Hello, my name is Mr. John Jennings. I begin working with the Chicago Public Schools in 2010, because I felt I could impact students in a positive manner to help educate them. I decided that education would be my career path. Before becoming a teacher I always saw myself as a leader who enjoys helping others.

My philosophy of education is that all students can learn when given the right tools. My philosophy of education comes from my upbringing and family structure, where I learned to fix cars, motorcycles, and rehab houses. I also learned the value of working hard and learning new skills. On my path to becoming a teacher, I started from the bottom and worked my way up.

I started as a Child Welfare Attendant (CWA) and, then I became a Special Education Classroom Assistant (SECA) while attending school to become a teacher. I earned my bachelor’s degree from Chicago State University. Immediately following, I earned my master’s degree in teaching (MAT). I have worked at several schools before I found my home at William H. Ryder.

I have been teaching at Ryder for eight years. I have taught 1^st, 4^th, 5^th and 6-8th, as well as being a diverse teacher in various positions in the middle school. I am currently teaching Pre-k and what an amazing journey it has been. I am endorsed in Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Science, Special Education, Computer Applications, and Business, Marketing and Management.

In my spare time, I enjoy boxing, athletic training, and attending sports events. I strive to maintain and have a friendly environment where your children can grow and thrive to the best of their abilities. I am currently teaching eighth grade, and enjoy working with my students.

Teachers attend GLM on Wednesdays. Conference by appointment only.