Celebrating the passion and purpose behind our people.
At Elmwood, science education transcends textbooks—it's about empowering students with lifelong learning strategies. As a Senior School Chemistry teacher and Success Coach, Jenny Howell uses subject expertise to help students unlock their full potential. Through innovative programs like Brainboosters and Learn2Learn Club, she equips students with tools that extend far beyond the classroom.
Tell us about your role at Elmwood.
My main role is teaching Chemistry in the Senior School, where we offer both the Ontario Ministry of Education program and the International Baccalaureate program. I am also a member of the Student Success department, where I work as a Success Coach. Through this role, I teach one section of Brainboosters enrichment for grade 7, and I lead the Learn2Learn Club in Senior School that teaches students effective learning strategies backed by cognitive science research.
What’s something you wish more people knew about your area of expertise?
While I love teaching both science and chemistry, I know that not every student will pursue this as a career path. My goal as a teacher is to help students develop effective learning strategies; things such as organizing and prioritizing tasks, using mnemonic devices, and the Pomodoro method are transferable to any area of study. Once students have unlocked the tools that work best for their brains, they truly are unstoppable!
How does your work contribute to making our community feel lifted and unstoppable?
By teaching students how to learn effectively, I empower them to approach challenges with confidence. These skills not only enhance academic performance but also build resilience and independence, fostering a community of self-directed learners.
Can you share a moment when you saw Elmwood students shine?
Students at Elmwood are constantly impressing me with their accomplishments—from their amazing Science Fair projects to beautiful visual and performance art pieces at Arts Night, to the engaging community events organized by our Prefect Team! However, I have been particularly impressed this year with the accomplishments of students on the Equity Council. This small but mighty group organized Elmwood’s first Pride Week, in addition to planning homeroom activities for Orange Shirt Day, World Kindness Day, Black History Month, International Women’s Day, and Asian Heritage Month. I continue to be inspired by their passion for equity issues and their leadership within the school community.
What advice would you give to a student who wants to pursue your field?
Now more than ever, there are so many cross-disciplinary opportunities in STEM fields. Don’t be afraid to explore other interests alongside a science major—take a minor in a foreign language, a dual major in chemistry and computer programming, or apply for an internship outside of your field of study. The more diverse your experiences are, the better equipped you will be to tackle problems in an ever-changing career landscape.
What’s one thing people might be surprised to learn about you?
It might surprise people to know that when I was in high school, I was very into film editing and even considered studying filmmaking in university! A friend and I wrote and produced a short film that was chosen as a top 100 film at the YoungCuts Film Festival in Toronto, and we got to watch it on the big screen!