Ballwin Elementary's Jenna Kovarik Named SSD Teacher of the Year

Ballwin Elementary special education teacher Jenna Kovarik is the 2026 Special School District (SSD) of St. Louis County Teacher of the Year.

Kovarik's family and colleagues surprised her with the good news - and a hallway parade in her honor - at Ballwin on Wednesday.

"Jenna Kovarik creates a classroom where learning is active, functional and intentionally designed to meet students where they are. Through initiatives like the Bear Bites student-operated snack cart, she provides real-world opportunities for students to practice academic, communication and life skills such as taking orders, handling money and managing inventory," said her nominator, special education instructional coach Jennifer Paris. "Jennifer adapts instruction for diverse learners using multi-leveled curriculum, individualized communication supports and hands-on strategies that ensure every student can participate meaningfully. Her focus on independence and self-advocacy is evident in practices like individualized work binders and systems that allow students to request support while maintaining dignity and autonomy. She integrates data-driven tools and performance-based tracking to maintain high expectations while honoring different learning pathways. Through strong collaboration with families, colleagues and community partners, Jenna builds an inclusive environment that supports growth, confidence and meaningful student progress."

Kovarik will be honored with other SSD award winners at the SSD Salutes ceremony later this spring. Read more about Kovarik at the SSD website.