Teresa Burke Elementary welcomes new principal

For Jan Hummel, the newly hired principal of Teresa Burke Elementary School, the most rewarding part of her career in education has always been the deep connection she shares with her students.

"I tell people it's not important if you don't remember all your students' names throughout all those past years. What is impressive is when the students from all those years remember you; then you know you've really made a difference," she said. "When they come back and see you, it's the best thing. That's the best part ever."

Hummel enjoys working with elementary-age students immensely. "I love the hugs. They're always so happy to see you, and it's the excitement in their eyes when they are learning something."

Over the years, many special memories have stood out for her, particularly seeing her past students bring their own children to the school and come back to share their college and career successes. "I love to hear when they are going back to school to be teachers; that is my favorite."

Every day at work is a new adventure for Hummel, filled with passion and enthusiasm. "It's never boring. You never know exactly what the day holds for you. The only thing you can count on is that the students are there, and they are excited to see you and need you. All of the things you thought were important that day are not quite as important as helping those students through their day."

Born in Wasco and raised in McFarland, Hummel always aspired to become a teacher but doubted her intelligence to achieve this dream. Her journey began in a preschool, where she later became the director. Balancing full-time work and raising a family, Hummel pursued college classes, determined to reach her goal. At 42, she landed her first teaching position as a kindergarten teacher at John L. Prueitt Elementary School. "My dream had come true, and I was never happier," she recalls. For her service, she was honored as Teacher of the Year at JLP and recognized as the Leading Lady of Wasco by Assemblymember Nicole Parra in 2006.

Hummel transitioned into administration with encouragement from her principal, Joe Capilla, and her superintendent, Gary Bray. Her contributions to the school district include developing programs such as the ASES program, RTI process, KROP, Ready to Start and the King and Queen of the Rings Kindergarten High-Frequency Word Program. Her 15 years of administrative experience encompass 10 years as vice principal at Karl F. Clemens Elementary and Teresa Burke Elementary, three years as principal at Palm Avenue Elementary and two years as a district administrator.

Hummel's educational philosophy centers on the importance of people and relationships. "Education is really about people and relationships, and every person in our district-whether parent, employee, or student – all have an important part to play," she emphasizes. These experiences have led her to her current role as Principal of Teresa Burke Elementary School, where she has served as vice principal for the past two years. During her tenure, the school staff has become a united team dedicated to academic excellence. "Our students are excited to come to school, and they are learning. Our test scores, school culture and attendance are all moving in a positive direction."

As principal, Hummel aims to continue building strong relationships with staff, students, parents and the community. Her dedication and care are evident in her commitment to her students' success. "These relationships and a positive school culture are critical in developing a community of lifelong learners that can achieve their goals. I don't want a student to ever think that they are not smart enough to achieve their goals and dreams. If they work hard enough and we support them, they can do anything their heart desires. We all have a part to play in the lives and future of our students. They deserve the best, and it is my mission to ensure that they get our best."

Hummel is honored to be a part of the school's growth and development. "I know that we are ready to make monumental leaps and bounds to close achievement gaps that will ensure success for all students. I am excited to see the future for Teresa Burke Elementary, and I am proud to be a part of the journey."