Page 6 - HIE Program 2024

Heroes In Education Program_Layout 1 4/22/2024 1:44 PM Page 6

Shelly Brower
Educator Emeritus

As a child growing up in Indiana, Shelly Brower always felt a calling to education.
She graduated from Purdue University and fled the cold weather to Los Angeles.
Shelly began her teaching career 36 years ago at Kelso Elementary in Inglewood. She
became one of the first Literacy Coaches and began to teach teachers. While she
enjoyed working with teachers, she missed the school site. Shelly moved into
administration and found the best of both worlds. She got to work with children and adults. In her career,
she has worked through fires, strikes, bomb threats and a pandemic. Every day at a school site is different
and filled with joy.
Shelly married her wonderful husband Vance in 1995 and raised two wonderful sons, Ian and Cade. During
her retirement, she is looking forward to visiting both boys in San Diego and Cleveland as well as vacationing
with her husband.

Zachary Groll

Arts Teacher of the Year

Zachary Groll has been a music educator in Los Angeles for 10 years, and is in
his fourth year with Los Angeles Unified School District. His expansive career as a
professional musician across a variety of genres has taken him around the world,
and fuels a desire to share his invaluable experiences through education. Mr. Groll
directs the Music Program at Northridge Middle School and provides various outlets
for students in instrumental classes, and in addition directs the Northridge Knights Drumline and Mariachi
Los Caballeros. Outside of the classroom, he maintains his professional career as a performing and recording
artist and is co-founder of Mariachi Alma y Corazón.

Jennifer Rivera

P.E. Teacher of the Year
Jenn Rivera has served in education for over 13 years. Jenn is a dynamic and versatile
educator who plays multiple roles within her school community. Currently, she channels
her boundless energy and passion as an energetic Physical Education teacher, infusing
every class with enthusiasm and encouragement. However, her contributions extend far
beyond a PE teacher. From her early days in the classroom, where she fostered a love
for learning, to her role as a coordinator of arts programs, where she sparked creativity
and expression, Jenn's impact has been profound. Furthermore, her dedication to mentoring aspiring
educators and coordinating various initiatives demonstrates her commitment to the growth and development
of her school community. Whether she's leading robotics projects or coordinating events, Jenn brings a spirit
of innovation and collaboration to every task she undertakes.
Recently celebrating a 10-year milestone with Magnolia Public Schools, Jenn's journey is a testament to
her unwavering commitment and tireless dedication to the betterment of her school community. Her influence
reaches far and wide, making her an invaluable asset and an inspiring figure within education.