Jennifer Davila

Literature, Math, Grammar, K-1 Co-Teacher
VDA Teacher Since 2018

Personal and educational background:
I grew up in Lake Forest and graduated from El Toro High School, way back when we still had orange groves! In college, my studies focused on Education and Child Psychology. I worked in Special Education for the Saddleback Valley Unified School District, as well as the Orange County Department of Education. I was working at the school within the OC Juvenile Hall, when I realized that I was not quite cutout for that level of special education. 

Looking for a change, I then accepted a position working for a collectibles company (where my husband still works), and I had an opportunity to learn graphic design. I then pursued a degree in graphic design, and worked for a large corporation for several years, until I became a mother.

It was when I became a mom, that the passion for education came back stronger than ever. When we discovered VanDamme Academy, we knew that this was where we wanted to send our children for school, and I knew that this was something special that I wanted to be a part of. 

When and why did you decide to become a teacher?
I have always been around children. As a teenager, I babysat my younger siblings and the neighborhood children. Becoming a teacher was a natural choice. Looking back, as a young adult I had become discouraged from teaching in special education because of the pedagogical approach of the school system. VDA is so special, and I knew right away that this is where I want to be. I still have to pinch myself that I get to work at such an incredible school. 

What brought you to VanDamme Academy?
I have to give credit to my husband, Blake, for initially finding the school. He had read Miss VanDamme’s article “The False Promise of a Classical Education”, sent it to me, and we were instant fans! After both of our children had been attending VDA for a few years, I had a life-changing cup of coffee with Miss VanDamme. Several months later, I jumped at the opportunity to start training and working part-time at the school. 

What do you do in your free time?
I am a mom of two very busy and sporty kids, so free time doesn’t come my way too often! I do like being outdoors, so hiking, camping and skiing are some of my favorites. I also love to read, and I am always trying to catch up on my ever-growing list of must-reads!