Jacks Valley teacher nominee for PBS educator award

Jacks Valley Elementary School teacher Jennifer Combs-Rollings is one of three finalists for extraordinary educator at the PBS Reno 2023 Spotlight Awards & Auction.

The awards are part of the public television station’s annual fundraiser celebrating local businesses, community groups, educators, individuals, and students who are making a positive impact in Northern Nevada.

Voting in the awards is open through Aug. 2 at www.pbs.reno

Winners will be announced during the PBS Reno Spotlight Awards & Auction on Sept. 8 at the Silver Legacy Resort Casino Grande Exposition Hall. PBS Reno will pay tribute to UNR President Brian Sandoval, the 2023 Extraordinary Philanthropist, by highlighting his work throughout the region.

According to the nomination, Combs-Rollings set up an event for families to get free items for whatever they may need like clothes, shoes, household items, etc.

“In her classroom, she would do anything for her family, find them resources, make learning fun, and get to know her families [in order] to give a personal touch and make her classroom a family,” according to the nomination.

“As PBS Reno begins its celebration of 40 years in this community, we are excited to kick it off at this year's Spotlight Awards & Auction,” said PBS Reno Vice President of Administration Brynne Kenney. “This community has given so much to PBS Reno over the years. You keep us on the air, in the classrooms, and allow us to do everything we do. To be able to give back by honoring some of the best businesses, community groups, educators, individuals, and students who go above and beyond to better this beautiful region we call home is a privilege.”

Admission to the 2023 Spotlight Awards & Auction is available for purchase at the station’s web site with the proceeds benefiting PBS Reno and the station’s educational outreach and local productions.