Jackie Simounet

Jackie Simounet is excited to join CDS as the 3rd Grade Polar Bear Teacher. After eight years teaching 3rd grade in Albemarle County Public Schools, she spent a year at a local forest school working with K–2 students in an outdoor, exploration-based program. While the forest experience was inspiring, Jackie is thrilled to return to upper elementary—her teaching sweet spot.
With a background in Spanish Cultural Studies and Theater, and over a decade of teaching experience, Jackie brings creativity, curiosity, a flair for theatrics, and strong relationship-building to her classroom. She holds a Master’s degree in Elementary Education and has earned several awards throughout her career—including a Golden Apple Award in 2023 for her dedication to community building.
Outside the classroom, Jackie enjoys reading multiple books at once, gluten-free baking, exploring new places, and most importantly, spending quality time with her family.