About Mr. J.

My name is Rodney Janssen, and the 2013/2014 school year marks my eighteenth year as a teacher.  It is my twirteenth year in the Peru Public School system.  Before moving to the area, I spent one year teaching special education in Streator, Illinois and four years teaching fourth grade in Orangeville, Illinois.  

I attended Eureka College and earned a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education in 1996. While at Eureka, I was involved in football, Delta Sigma Phi fraternity, and many other activities.

Since I have arrived in Peru, I have taught fourth grade.  I have enjoyed teaching and being involved in many things.  Coaching is a big part of my life. I coached basketball at the Washington Junior High. Currently I am coaching the intramural program (basketball, and mushball) at Washington.  

Whether I am at school or not, my family is a big part of my life.  My new wife, Rachell and I got married in February 2009.  Spending time with her is very important.  Together we have four kids; Ranay, Brenna, Devan, and Rayme.  The four of them keep us very busy. When I am not running them to either baseball, softball, band, chorus, and so on....... I enjoy hunting, our four wheelers, and just being outside.

Teaching has become a driving force in my life.  Finding out what motivates each kid is something I find enjoyable.   Even on those frustrating days, I have a hard time not staying upset with each of the classes that I have had.  I am always trying to adapt and find new ways to teach.

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