UT Tyler University Academy – Palestine Teacher Nationally Recognized by Project Lead The Way

October 14, 2024 | Hannah Buchanan

Jenny Calk, a high school a biology and biomedical science teacher at The University of Texas at Tyler University Academy – Palestine, was named a 2024-25 Outstanding Teacher by Project Lead The Way.

Calk is one of only 103 selected from nominations across the U.S. to earn the honor, which recognizes remarkable K-12 teachers across PLTW pathway programs in computer science, engineering and biomedical science.

“Teachers like Jenny Calk are leaders in their fields, and their continuous success is evident in their ability to embrace innovative minds while building relationships with tomorrow’s leaders,” said Dr. Jo Ann Simmons, University Academy superintendent. “We value Mrs. Calk’s expertise and celebrate with her."

A registered nurse, Calk has served University Academy for eight years. At UA-Palestine, she aids as a Project Based Learning coach at the high school level. She actively participates as a staff adviser with HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) and the NASA GLOBE Symposium. Calk also assists with University Interscholastic League Academics, National Honor Society, Rotary Club, Palestine Chamber of Commerce Junior Ambassadors and serves on the Leader in Me Lighthouse Team. She holds a Master of Education in curriculum and instruction from UT Tyler and was previously recognized as a UA Distinguished Teacher in 2019.

“Jenny’s collaborative spirit and willingness to go above and beyond has made her a respected
figure among her peers, students and community,” said Shelly Parsons, interim campus director.
“The continued impact Jenny has had on teaching and the school/district environment is truly
remarkable. Her dedication to education and commitment to creating a supportive learning
environment makes her a deserving candidate for this award.”

The UT Tyler University Academy is a K-12 public university laboratory charter school with campuses in Tyler, Longview and Palestine. UT Tyler UA offers STEM curriculum in a hands-on
learning environment. Currently serving more than 1,200 students, the district is the only PLTW Distinguished District statewide and one of 20 nationwide. All three campuses are recognized as Distinguished PLTW high schools. For more information, visit uttua.org/.

Project Lead The Way is a mission-driven organization that serves millions of PreK-12 students and
teachers in schools across the United States. More than 12,000 elementary, middle and high
schools in all 50 states and the District of Columbia offer PLTW programs. For additional
information, visit pltw.org/experience-pltw/national-awards/national-awards-winners.

With a mission to improve educational and health care outcomes for East Texas and beyond, UT
Tyler offers more than 90 undergraduate and graduate programs to more than 10,000 students.
Through its alignment with UT Tyler Health Science Center and UT Health East Texas, UT Tyler has
unified these entities to serve Texas with quality education, cutting-edge research and excellent
patient care. Classified by Carnegie as a doctoral research institution and by U.S. News & World
Report as a national university, UT Tyler has campuses in Tyler, Longview, Palestine and Houston.