Closing out on CTE month by featuring a brief Q&A with Claudia Jenkins, Marketing Teacher, Coop Advisor, and ACT Prep Coordinator at Northern Nash High School.

1. What do you teach at NNHS?

Marketing, Marketing Applications, Sport and Event Marketing I, and Sport and Event Marketing II Honors

2. How long have you been teaching marketing?

3. What is the highlight of your career being in this role?

I wouldn’t say I have one particular highlight. I am proud of obtaining and maintaining National Board Certification status. I am also proud of seeing where my former students are in life: whether it is navigating college as a freshman, being an HVAC repairman, or married with children working full time. The connections formed in the classroom extend beyond the boundaries of high school and these former students understand I am here for them now as I was for them as a student.

4. What motivated you to become a teacher in the field of marketing, and how has your passion influenced your teaching approach?

I was working in marketing at BB&T and my role changed. I realized I wanted to continue the training aspect I did at BB&T and teaching was the perfect spot to continue to share my passion. I come to school every day with the attitude that something can be learned. Even if a student does not want to pursue a career in marketing s/he can learn how to market her/himself in the best manner possible. I model the behavior, attention, and attitude I want my students to have both in and out of the classroom. My approach to teaching is to be positive and caring. If the students don’t feel you care about them, they won’t care about what you are saying in the classroom, regardless of what it is.

5. Could you share some specific success stories or achievements of your students within your program that you are particularly proud of?

For several years, my level two classes were asked to assist with the Nash County School Nutrition Banquet. Watching the students brainstorm themes, create the decorations from scratch, and work together to decorate a blank room in several hours’ time is always awe inspiring. You wouldn’t believe the skills these students discover they have! From cutting and fluffing tissue paper flowers to creating disco balls covered in glitter, students work together to find the best role for each of them to complete the task. It really is amazing to see students discover their own hidden talents!
A former student who was really interested in sport and event marketing went on to intern with a minor league baseball team in the Coastal Plain League.
Another former student realized she was good at pitching ideas to people and has a successful real estate career in the Wilmington area.

6. What's the best advice you can give to a student who is either considering this CTE pathway or is already involved?

Take advantage of every opportunity a teacher, guidance counselor, administrator, or coach offers you. Not every student gets a chance to do what is being offered. In addition, the opportunity may open the door to a career or love you didn’t know existed. Finally, all of the adults surrounding you daily have experiences and lessons from their own years of high school. If something is being offered or suggested, it is only to help your path to success be less treacherous!

Southern Nash High School