Site Coordinator | Teton High School, Driggs, Idaho
Born and raised in Idaho, Jen Hansen is a proud mom and grandmother who brings both life experience and dedication to her role at Teton High School. She began her career in education by substituting in her local district, later moving into a secretary position that included managing IDLA’s program. As the program grew, so did her involvement. “The program’s significant growth and success ultimately required a full-time focus, a transition that has been successfully embraced,” Jen explained.
Now, as a full-time Site Coordinator, Jen supports students face-to-face for five class periods each day. “My role involves everything from beginning with registration, to seeing a student through the end of their class and transcribing their grade,” she shared. “This allows me to check in with my students and gives them class time to work on their IDLA assignments.”
Jen has seen students achieve incredible milestones through IDLA, from earning dual credits and CNA certifications to excelling in electives that aren’t available locally. “They are significant programs that are needed to advance the success of students wanting to further their education,” she said. “Students are able to take advantage of these opportunities before they graduate high school, and the many choices in electives allow them to get their elective credits in something that grabs their interest.”
Living in a rural area like Teton Valley, these opportunities are especially valuable. “IDLA has filled gaps in our area by having many Dual Credit opportunities that our local campus doesn’t offer,” Jen explained. “Our students are diverse, and they have different learning desires and interests. Without IDLA, they would be limited to only what is offered on campus. That does not always excite our students. They like having a variety of classes to choose from and different path choices, giving them many ideas of which paths they want to take in their future academic endeavors.”
For Jen, the most rewarding part is watching confidence grow. “They are excited that they can complete a high school and college credit, both at the same time. They grow academically when they can have a choice and take classes that move them forward in what they want to do and accomplish in their future.”
That growth fuels Jen’s own motivation as a coordinator. Her advice to others in her role is simple but powerful: “Communicate. That is key. Communicate with the students, their counselors, online teachers, IDLA staff, and parents. Ask questions until you understand. That is the best way we can serve our students.”
