Health Education and Physical Education Consultant, Jean Zimmerman is the Maine Department of Education’s Employee of the Week this week. Get to know a little more about Jean through this brief question and answer:
What are your roles with DOE?
I am the Health Education and Physical Education Consultant and also am a co-chair of the Maine Integrated Youth Health Survey(MIYHS). MIYHS is self-reported student behavior data that is essential for targeted policies and practices.
What do you like best about your job?
There is so much variety in job responsibilities. I also feel strongly about the importance of lifetime health literacy and physical literacy and encouraging teachers to take leadership roles in the field.
How or why did you decide on this career?
Ever since elementary school, I always wanted to be a teacher. There is something very powerful about making connections with students and providing positive experiences.
What do you like to do outside of work for fun?
I have a black pug, Oscar, who loves to go for walks. I also enjoy playing golf and reading.