Barbie Davidsmeyer is the new assistant principal to Jacksonville High School this year. Before she came to JHS, she taught kindergarten through 8^th grade special education in Cahokia, IL. Then Davidsmeyer became a special education teacher in Rushville, IL for a year. After that she went on as the director of special services (ELL and Special Education) in Rushville for three years before coming to Jacksonville. Davidsmeyer has been working as an educator for twelve years but has been working with children all her life. She worked in the Special Olympics, Camp Courage, and volunteered.

Davidsmeyer was inspired to become a teacher by her first grade teacher, Mrs. Cave. She looked up to her, saying, “She had so much love and joy for students and teaching that she inspired me to reproduce that.” Davidsmeyer loves being around learning. She enjoys seeing teachers have teachable moments in the classroom. Also she loves seeing students interact with each other. Davidsmeyer has always had the passion for writing. She loves to also read other people’s thoughts and work.

When Davidsmeyer isn’t working or helping out in school, she enjoys spending time with her family, especially going to Cardinal games. She loves watching her two sons, Colton and Emrick, play baseball, basketball, and football. She also likes to ride four wheelers, work on her farm, spend time outside, and be with friends.

This school year, Davidsmeyer is looking forward to all the new things she is going to experience at JHS. She looks forward to Homecoming, prom, musicals, finals, testing, concerts, parades, graduation, and so much more! Also watching students and teachers while they are “in their element.” Davidsmeyer leaves all students with this advice: “You can do it! Mind over matter; tough minds and determination will get you where you want to be.”