Middle College at Austin Peay State University Employee Spotlight

March 31, 2025

Jodi L. Carrier, Lead Social Studies Teacher for CMCSS

What attracted you to your role at Middle College and how did you get started in this field?*

I loved the independent nature of Middle College, and how the college experience was embedded into the program, as well as the block scheduling of classes.

What is your favorite part about your job and why?*

I love having the opportunity to enjoy my students and get to know them and to help them to grow. I also enjoy curriculum building and the opportunity to create informative, yet fun and interactive lessons to engage the students and help them find a love for learning.

Share a professional accomplishment that makes you proud. *

I am very proud of my Senior Seminar class, which was a blank class that I could do anything I felt could be of value for the students. It has allowed me to think critically about what is important for their foundation of adulthood to help them become successful young citizens. It has allowed me to think creatively and to network with APSU and other local businesses and professionals to grant as many opportunities to my students as possible.

What is your favorite Middle College memory?*

My favorite Middle College memories usually include a fun activity or project I have planned for the kids that allows them to be creative yet think critically, such as my Presidential Campaign project in US History, or my Cooking Video project in Senior Seminar. It really forces them to think out of the box, but it is always so fun to see how much they end up enjoying it.

List the universities you have attended and degrees earned and/or share fun facts about yourself.*

MTSU: Bachelor of Science: Political Science APSU: Bachelor of Arts: History APSU: Master of Arts: Teaching APSU: Specialist Degree in Education Current Degree In Process APSU: Doctoral Degree in Education

Do you have anything else you would like to share?

It is such a beautiful blessing to have been granted the opportunity to teach at Middle College, which has changed my life for the better. I feel so much gratitude for this job, and I will use this blessing to pour my heart into my kids and my work for them.