FORT WORTH, TEXAS, December 18, 2020 – Fort Worth Independent School District teacher Bernita Jackson earned the Crescent Real Estate Chair for Teaching Excellence in Career and Technology Education. Crescent presented the award on November 12 on the steps of Trimble Technical High School with the school band playing and teachers and past Teaching Chairs applauding. Jackson teaches career technology and IT skills at Trimble Technical High School.

As an Academic Chair for Teaching Excellence, Jackson receives a $5,000 honorarium. The Fort Worth Academic Chair for Teaching Excellence program, created in 1994, is modeled after the university-level Chair program and is designed to recognize and reward exemplary teachers. This program is unique because of its role in a public K-12 setting and its rigorous selection process.

According to Suzanne Stevens, Managing Director and Chief Financial Officer of Crescent, Jackson was recognized as an exemplary educator who inspires her students, many of which are children of former students, to become tomorrow’s business and technology leaders. Crescent has sponsored the prestigious award for 15 consecutive years. Crescent recognizes the impact that teachers and education have on youth, their families, and communities. Crescent is committed to helping children become more successful in school and life.

“Our committee was impressed with Bernita’s experience and passion for her students, and her ability to connect with them,” said Stevens. “The students and their families know that Bernita cares about them and their education.”

As a veteran teacher, Jackson uses her knowledge and understanding of student needs to reach them individually. She uses multiple methods and techniques of teaching – video, audio, written materials, and lecture. She will also introduce peer-to-peer instruction where students can help fellow students.

“Many of my students are children of former students, so I feel I have a unique opportunity to grow a new generation of learners. Very early, we develop an understanding of my expectations,” Jackson said. “Everyone is capable of being great and can acquire skills if they work hard.”

According to Jackson, teachers hold the future in their hands. “Teaching is an exceptional responsibility and privilege. Love what you do and pour the knowledge you have into students who might one day come back and say that because of you, they became successful,” she added.

Jackson has taught in Fort Worth ISD for 34-years. She graduated from Prairie View A&M University in 1982 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Education. Jackson currently serves as chair of the Trimble Technical High School Business Department and serves as coordinator or director for numerous school programs. She is the campus Girl’s Inc. coordinator, Student Council sponsor, new teacher mentor, special programs coordinator, and hospitality coordinator.

Video of the Crescent Real Estate award presentation to Bernita Jackson: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tOwIybEDkOg&feature=youtu.be

Back to All News