For 18 years, Mrs. Jurik has been a guiding light in the kindergarten classrooms of Village Meadows Elementary School. With a heart full of love for her students and an unwavering dedication to education, she has spent nearly two decades shaping young minds and helping them take their first big leap into learning.
To Mrs. Jurik, kindergarten isn’t just a grade—it’s a world of discovery. Watching her students grow from playful preschoolers into confident first graders is the greatest joy of her career. She cherishes the excitement in their eyes as they experience new things and embrace the wonder of learning.
Her classroom, affectionately known as the Puppy Pack, is a place of love, family, and support, fitting perfectly with the larger Wolf Pack at Village Meadows. She believes in fostering a caring environment where every child feels valued and nurtured. Parents trust her not just to teach their children but to help them grow, develop independence, and take those first big steps toward their future.
Throughout the years, education has evolved, but one thing remains the same: the joy of learning. Mrs. Jurik embraces hands-on experiences and small-group learning centers to keep her students engaged. Whether it’s math or early literacy, she is always on the lookout for new and exciting ways to spark curiosity and enthusiasm in her classroom. She credits much of her success to the incredible teamwork and support of her paraprofessional, Mrs. Urbina, who works very closely with her.
Outside the classroom, Mrs. Jurik is a devoted grandmother, spending time with her two-year-old granddaughter exploring the Reid Park Zoo in Tucson and the Children’s Museum. She enjoys knitting, reading, traveling, and taking long walks, but most of all, she loves spending time with her family. Her three grown children are all proud SVUSD graduates, and at the end of this school year, she and her husband will embark on a new adventure: retirement. With her son recently moving to Germany, she’s looking forward to visiting and exploring the world beyond her beloved classroom.
Mrs. Wambach, principal of Village Meadows, sums up Mrs. Jurik’s impact perfectly:
"This educator is more than just a teacher—she is an icon, a leader, and a transformative force in the lives of the young minds entrusted to her care. A true veteran, she has become an integral part of Village Meadows’ fabric, leaving a lasting impact on countless students who have had the privilege of being part of her professional journey and her beloved 'Puppy Pack!'"
Though her time in the classroom is coming to a close, her legacy will live on in the hearts of the many students, families, and colleagues she has touched. Thank you, Mrs. Jurik, for your dedication, kindness, and the love you’ve poured into every child who walked through your doors.
