Disclaimer: This is sponsored content. All opinions and views are of the Urban Egg and Salsa Brava and does not reflect the same of KOAA.
A Lewis-Palmer School District teacher is being recognized for her exceptional work with special needs students, earning praise from parents who call her services a "lifeline" for their children.
Jen Gardner provides homebound educational services for students with special needs in District 38 – Monument School District. She was nominated for KOAA's Teachers First program by Jenny Gallegos, whose son has autism, vocal stimming, and sensory processing needs.
"Jen doesn't just show up—she tunes in," Gallegos said. "She has a sixth sense for when my son needs a sensory break, a silly moment, or a shift in pace."
Gardner works with students in various settings, from kitchen tables to backyards, adapting her teaching environment to meet each child's sensory and emotional needs. Her approach combines academic instruction with movement, music, and flexibility.
"She creates a space where he feels safe and celebrated—not just accommodated," Gallegos said. "Her ability to redirect is practically ninja-level, always delivered with kindness and never shame."
The nomination highlights Gardner's ability to work with students who experience vocal stimming and focus challenges. When students lose concentration, Gardner responds with patience rather than frustration, seamlessly incorporating sensory breaks and humor into lessons.
"She doesn't just teach lessons—she builds trust," Gallegos said. "She creates a learning environment that is both structured and flexible, where my son feels safe, accepted, and empowered to engage."
Gardner's impact extends beyond academic instruction. Parents report that her work helps students develop confidence and self-esteem while learning to feel capable and valued.
"Through her work, my son is gaining more than academic knowledge; he is learning how to feel capable, seen, and valued," Gallegos said. "That foundation will serve him far beyond any single lesson—it's helping him become a more connected, confident member of the community."
The Teachers First program is a partnership between KOAA, Urban Egg, and Salsa Brava to celebrate educators in southern Colorado. Winners receive a $100 gift card and a $500 award for classroom supplies.
Teachers can be nominated by scanning the code displayed during KOAA broadcasts. Or filling out
_____
If you know a teacher in the community, you would like to nominate, there is a link to do so below.
Teacher’s First Award Qualifications
AWARD
- One teacher a month, from September through May will be chosen to receive the award.
- Teachers First recipients will receive $500 for classroom supplies for the following year.
- They will receive a $100 gift card that may be used at any Salsa Brava or Urban Egg location.
PURPOSE
- To recognize and honor teachers who exemplify excellence in teaching.
- To encourage and inspire others.
- To raise the importance of the teaching profession.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Must currently teach in a Southern Colorado accredited public or private K-12 school.
NOMINATION PROCESS AND RESTRICTIONS
Nominations will be accepted all year. Applications received in the summer months will be considered the following semester. Please do not submit additional support materials (photos, DVD’s, audio cassettes)
Nominations must include:
- The Nomination Form
- Letter of Nomination
CLICK HERE to submit your nomination online. Nominations can also be submitted by mail - DOWNLOAD THE FORM HERE. Nomination materials will not be returned. Only complete nominations will be considered. The winner will be featured on News5. (Winner, nominee, and school agree to be featured on News5.)
GUIDELINES FOR WRITING A LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION
- Describe specific examples of how this teacher cares.
- Describe how this teacher provides a positive, stimulating classroom.
- Explain how this teacher makes a connection with his/her students.
- Tell what this teacher does that is above and beyond normal duties.
- Be specific on how the teacher helps develop successful members of the community.
Email nomination and letters of recommendation to - teachersfirst@koaa.com
Use this address for regular mail: Teachers First c/o News5, 2200 7th Ave., Pueblo, Co 81003
_____
This story was reported on-air staff and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.
_____
Watch KOAA News5 on your time, anytime with our free streaming app available for your Roku, FireTV, AppleTV and Android TV. Just search KOAA News5, download and start watching.