Interview by Darlene Bowers
Welcome to the Ada Icon’s “Ada Teacher Feature.” Here we share thoughts and insights from local teachers who lift up and inspire our students. Let us lift up and inspire these educators as well.

Today we meet Jill Laughlin, Ada physical education teacher. 

It will come as no surprise that Jill enjoys sports…read on to see which sport she plays and which teams are her favorites. You also learn about Jill’s drive to help students try their best and be their best.  Go Bucks! Go Bulldogs! Go Jill!

What subjects and grades are you currently teaching?
K-6 and 9th grade Physical Education.

What degrees do you hold and from where?
Graduated from Celina High School in 1995, bachelor’s degree from Bluffton University 1999, and master’s degree from Bluffton University 2003.

How long have you been a teacher?
This is year 18.

Why do you enter the teaching profession?
To help students become the best person they can be.

What motivates you? 
Giving students positive and memorable experiences.

What’s the best thing students can do for you? 
Try their best.

What’s the best thing parents and caregivers can do for you? 
Expect their child/children to be the best they can be.

In your opinion, what makes Ada schools unique or different? 
Small community where everyone knows everyone and helps each other out.

Can you relate your best or most memorable teaching moment? 
When students realize they can achieve their goals if they believe in themselves and keep trying.

 What excites, interests and captivates you inside the classroom? 
Students having positive experiences.

How about outside the classroom? 
I play on a slow pitch softball team during the summer.  I also like Ohio State Buckeyes and Cincinnati Bengals football games.

If you weren’t a teacher what would you be doing?
Working in the sports industry.