A library, once filled with just rows of books, has been reimagined into a vibrant, collaborative space of discovery and innovation. At the heart of this transformation is Jennifer McHugh, a library clerk at Lincoln Elementary, who is not only giving back to the community that shaped her but also making an impact as an alumna of CNUSD. Having attended Lincoln Elementary from second through sixth grade, Jennifer’s journey has come full circle as she now returns in the role of librarian.
A few years ago, Dr. Jenson, the school’s principal, invited her to join the team at Lincoln Elementary. She recognized Jennifer’s passion and vision for integrating STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) at the elementary level. Jennifer had already established a STEAM lab at her previous school site, so Dr. Jenson trusted Jennifers vision and ability to develop a STEAM lab at Lincoln.
“She [Dr. Jenson] knew that it was just a passion of mine,” said Jennifer. “This is what I wanted to do; I wanted to bring STEAM into the elementary school.”
Jennifer’s role extends far beyond that of a traditional librarian. When she first started, it was evident there was a gap between the classroom and the library. In addition to managing the library curriculum, Jennifer coordinates with the IB (International Baccalaureate) Coordinator and teachers to create transdisciplinary lessons that connect and enhance what students are learning in the classroom.
“When I arrived, I saw where the gap was and understood the need to bridge it,” said Jennifer. “It’s rewarding to see how much it benefits students to work in a hands-on environment.”
Now, Jennifer has transformed the library into a place that can operate as a research space and STEAM lab, enhancing the curriculum being taught in the classroom. Additionally, she coordinates Special Rotation, where students participate in Spanish, STEAM, PE, and Math. Jennifer’s hands-on projects, like sixth graders building hydraulic bridges, provides students with opportunities to engage in activities that go beyond what regular classroom schedule allows.
“I’ve created lesson plans that classified staff can instruct,” said Jennifer. “We’ve built a model that is working and able to be duplicated at other sites.”
Jennifer’s deep commitment to inspiring students is rooted in her own childhood, where a spirit of inquiry and creativity was nurtured from an early age. Growing up, her father, an engineer transformed his workshop into a hands-on playroom, encouraging Jennifer to explore, build, and imagine freely. It was there, experimenting with tools and bringing her ideas to life, that her love for learning through inquiry began to take shape. This early exposure to problem-solving and exploration now serves as the foundation of her educational philosophy, one that champions curiosity, hands-on learning, and the freedom to fail forward.
“I want to instill in my students the importance of being open-minded, taking risks, and not being afraid to fail; that’s how real growth and learning happen,” said Jennifer. “When we start projects in the lab, I let them know right away, failure is a part of the process. You might build a bridge and it might collapse, but that’s how we learn and improve our designs.”
This teaching philosophy has made a profound impact on students. Jennifer shared that seeing the STEAM lab’s positive impact on parents and students has been one of the most rewarding parts of her career. Parents have shared how the STEAM lab has become one of the main reasons their children look forward to school. Jennifer recalls a conversation with a parent who shared how the library had become a safe welcoming space for their child, who faces challenges with social skills. For students who may find traditional classrooms difficult, both the library and STEAM lab offer an environment where they can truly shine.
“A lot of children who struggle in a traditional classroom don’t have the same experience in the lab,” said Jennifer. “The STEAM lab has given them the opportunity to discover talents and passions they might never have uncovered.”
Jennifer’s efforts go beyond supporting the students. She works diligently with the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) to organize funding for books and STEAM materials with events like a read-a-thon. She actively involves families through monthly Family STEAM days, inviting parents to take part in hands-on learning with their children, fostering a strong sense of community and collaboration. Jennifer’s efforts make the library a place that reflects one of Lincolns IB mission objectives of creating a globally aware community. She is very intentional when selecting books to read aloud by ensuring that the characters and stories are representative of a wide range of cultures, perspectives, and experiences.
Jennifer’s passion and commitment for her work has motivated her to pursue a teaching credential, embracing the same growth mindset she encourages in her students.
“I’m inspiring my students, but they’re also motivating me,” said Jennifer. “If I’m asking them to take on challenges and grow, I should be doing the same.”
Her biggest piece of advice for those who may be in a similar role is to chase your ideas.
“If you’re in a role and have a vision, don’t hesitate to bring it to your administration and share the potential impact,” said Jennifer. “It may start out small, but over time, it can grow into something truly meaningful.”
Jennifer’s vision and dedication have transformed the library into a place of creativity and exploration, where students are empowered to dream, explore, and grow.