About

Jodi Hettiger

Computer Science Instructor (K-8), Middle School Facilitator With an Emphasis in Math

Jodi Hettiger has always had some internal drive to help children—and the world. As a child, she dreamed of being a veterinarian…the kind who would rescue animals and then use them to help troubled children heal. While she grew up to take a very different career path, she’s remained committed to serving others and trouble-shooting challenges in the different lines of work she’s pursued over the years.

Mrs. Hettiger graduated with a bachelor’s in biological science from Oregon State University. She then spent 25 years developing and implementing computer-based training for the United States Military, primarily with the Navy and Marine Corps, using her graphic design, programming, and Instructional Systems Design skills to create curricula, courses and lesson content. In addition, Mrs. Hettiger has also worked in quality assurance roles, project/program management, and training of project managers in a corporate setting. Her attention to detail and knowledge of systems, instruction and technology have shaped her ability to educate our students, whether that means teaching a course in math or leading our computer science/robotics enrichment program. 

 In the diverse roles she serves at STA, she says it’s incredibly motivating and exciting when our children may be struggling to understand something complex or challenging, then suddenly have that incredible “aha!” moment. Their newfound sense of understanding and empowerment is clearly important for the children but also reminds Mrs. Hettiger why she loves the work she does. If a student struggles with a particular assignment, she takes the time necessary to help ensure that student’s success. Her amazing patience, empathy and adaptability shape her responses to her students, enable her to find creative ways to connect with them, and guide them to discover solutions and achievement for themselves. 

 In her classes, students have fun, too. Knowing that children learn best when there’s some fun involved, Mrs. Hettiger tries to keep complex subjects like math and technology interesting. When kids are engaged, that’s when they learn and grow! There’s a balance, of course, between setting expectations, having rules and also keeping things fun. But fun must be part of the picture—or at least that’s what Mrs. Hettiger thinks! 

 Favorite Saint: I like Albertus Magnus (Saint Albert the Great). He’s the patron saint of scientists and a great example of how faith and science can coexist.

Joined STA in 2017

Education: Bachelor’s in Biological Science

contact email: jodi.hettiger@redmondacademy.com