Jacki Bangerter: Cultivating a Culture of Excellence

In Jacki Bangerter’s classroom, excellence isn’t just encouraged—it’s expected. North Park Elementary’s 2025 Teacher of the Year sees teaching as more than a profession. It’s a calling rooted in connection, compassion, and a fierce belief in her students' potential.

“I love the kids,” she said. “I would never want to leave teaching because of the kids. I love helping them, learning about what makes each of them tick, and doing what I can do to help each one become the best version of themselves.”

For 20 years, Bangerter has prepared her fifth and sixth-grade students for the transition to middle school. They leave her class armed with deeper knowledge, values, and social skills. 

“I love helping them gain that solid foundation,” she said. “I also get very real with them. They know what I expect of them, and they know that I care. I want each of them to know that I see them as a person and not just as a student.”

Bangerter’s dedication to students inspires her colleagues, who describe her as a profound mentor for both students and faculty. 

“Jacki’s deep care for individuals sets her apart,” a colleague shared. “Her compassion and unwavering commitment to student success make her an outstanding educator.” 

North Park Principal Jullie Payne echoed this sentiment. “Jacki is a vital part of North Park,” Payne said. “She expects great things from her students, and they love her for it.”

Bangerter displays equal tenacity and care to her home life, where she and her husband are raising their three children. Whether at the dinner table or in front of a classroom, her guiding principles are the same.

“I really focus on building connections,” she said. “I want each person to feel seen and heard when I’m with them.”

And that, perhaps, is the heart of Jacki Bangerter’s impact—not just preparing students for what’s next, but making sure they know they matter, right now.