Jason Leete
Collaborator
Jason Leete’s first collaboration with Next Step came long before there even was a Next Step. As part of an early 4-H Portable Challenge training, he helped incoming 9th graders transition to their freshman year at North High School. He kept in touch with Martha McCormick as he completed college and worked for SUCCESS at Des Moines Public Schools.
After graduating from Upper Iowa University, Jason became a stellar second grade teacher at Moulton Elementary School. Sometimes asked to fill unusual roles, he bounded into a school pep rally and his tiger head fell off. Jason left students with this, “When you face a new challenge, it’s really important not to lose your head.”
As part of a multi-partner effort to implement the principles of a caring school, he worked with the Next Step Team on developing positive relationships at school, day camps and after school programs.
Jason says he aspires to be a super hero, but he may already be one. Besides being an excellent teacher, he is an avid bicyclist, Geocacher, and family member.
“I think teaching and learning is totally about the experience,” Leete says. “It’s the situations you create for them.”
Jason is an inspiration for getting kids active and out-of-doors. Jason connects with kids from 8 to 80, and helps us all reach our full potential. He sets high expectations and tailors his teaching to meet the needs and interests of the group.
