Meet the 2012 Mom Congress Iowa Delegate

Jane Zupp is the 2012 Mom Congress Delegate for Iowa. She is the sixth child with six brothers. Jane attended Paullina Community School and Northwestern College. She taught at Willow Community–which became River Valley CSD–for the last 33 years. She adopted Sarah and married Shawn about eight years ago.  

What book is currently on your nightstand? I don’t have one, but I have a Bible out and I always have a novel ready to read.

One thing that is going great in education in your state: Many more people are getting involved. The Iowa core is being developed at the local level.  Backpack programs are helping feed students over the weekend and summer food programs are feed them in the summer. We have a group that makes sure the kids have what need for winter clothing here. Our state has always been one of the top in education and is working to get back there.

One thing you wish could be improved in education in your state: The pay needs to be improved. There are always things that can be improved. All of the programs need to continue to be updated and improved. Technology is a major need—the teachers do not have the time to learn about the new technology, write grants to fund it as well, do all the paper work after it is funded, and teach their classes as well.  

Your favorite teacher (and why): I don’t have a favorite teacher. I enjoyed most of my teachers. 

Secret indulgence: Sudoku and chocolate.

Favorite extracurricular activities when you were in school: I didn’t get to be involved. I had chores. I did get to go with the church youth group. 

Favorite subject in school: I love reading and writing. The world could change any way or the way I wanted when I wrote. 

Biggest wish for your kids: I pray that she will be the best she can be, be kind, and always remember that I love her. For my students who have always been “my kids,” I pray that they will always strive to do their best and be kind to all others

Most rewarding/challenging stage of parenthood thus far (and why): The stage now is a challenge because she wants more independence in areas she’s not quite ready for and she wants to depend on me when I am sure she can get it done without me. 

Favorite family tradition: I love getting the tree up at Christmas.

Favorite family activities: We love to go out to eat, to the movies or to Sarah’s school and sporting events.