Originally from Chicago, Illinois, Jorie Welch grew up in the vibrant Dallas, Texas metropolitan area. After starting her undergraduate studies at the University of Texas at Austin, she later relocated to the East Coast, where she completed her degree at Kennesaw State University.

Jorie’s journey to teaching was inspired by her childhood love for teaching her dolls and stuffed animals. After a life-changing divorce and the decision to return to college, she initially aimed to become a teacher so she could align her work schedule with her son’s school holidays. However, after receiving advice that urged her to focus on a career that would help maximize her income to support her child, she pursued a business degree instead. Jorie eventually realized her true passion for teaching and entered the classroom through the Texas Alternative Certification Program, after passing her content exam in High School Social Studies. Her primary focus is U.S. History post-1877.

A dedicated volunteer, Jorie has been involved in church activities since junior high school. From working in the nursery during church services to volunteering for Vacation Bible Schools, her commitment to service has been unwavering. After becoming a mom, she continued her volunteer work by chaperoning youth trips and co-coordinating the church’s Coffee Café with her son—an incredibly special memory that she holds dear.

Let’s get to know Jorie!

What was the biggest challenge you overcame in your journey to becoming a certified teacher?
Re-teaching myself how to learn! I had heard the term “brain fog,” but did not understand its gravity. I had to give myself grace when I lost all recollection of yesterday’s studies and just started again! Eventually, I was able to learn and retain the six years of course content for all social studies classes to sit for the exam.

What advice would you give to others who are re-entering the workforce after a long break?
Hold on to your dream and believe in yourself! Tune out any naysayers — they don’t know you or what you can do! Take care to practice self-care and keep your eye on the next step! (At one point, I had a picture of an elephant and a cutout of a fork with a sticky note: “One bite at a time, girl!” — because of the cliché, “How do you eat an elephant?”)

How has your experience impacted the way you connect with your students?
My students know that I am a cancer conqueror and that I began teaching after my cancer fight. I think they know I’ve been through so much and trust that I can relate to some of what they go through. They open up to me and share about their home lives or friend struggles. I’m able to use school and counseling resources when appropriate to meet these kids where they are, making sure each one feels safe, satiated, and warm.

What accomplishment are you most proud of?
My principal nominated me for the “First Class Teacher” award last year! It was such an honor, and I was so surprised!

What does Phi Kappa Phi mean to you?
When I was invited to join, I was thrilled! Phi Kappa Phi has given me the honor of standing shoulder to shoulder with some brilliant minds and amazingly kind souls! Now that I’m an educator, Phi Kappa Phi means taking those brilliant young minds and guiding them on their own path of higher, lifelong learning — and being so grateful that I had an opportunity to watch from the sidelines for just a bit of their performance!

What’s one thing on your bucket list that you’re excited to do?
I am excited to travel! I want to see NYC, the Northern Lights, a castle in Ireland.

Do you cook? If so, what’s your favorite meal to cook?
I am a big Instant Pot fan! Any “dump” recipe that is low on carbs but big on taste will be a repeat on my kitchen table!

What is one piece of advice you want to leave us with?
You only get one body – please don’t take it for granted! Sure, a lot of people survive the “little c,” but why not do the S-I-M-P-L-E screenings when advised? They save lives!

To learn more about Jorie and connect, visit her profile within our online member community here.

Is there someone you would like to see in the spotlight? Send your nomination to news@phikappaphi.org, and include background information for the nomination.