Jenny Combs – Executive Director
Jenny was raised and started teaching in rural Montana and has been working professionally in education for over 25 years. Jenny taught 7-12 math and English, earned a Masters degree in Curriculum and Instruction from MSU, and was a finalist for the Montana Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics. Jenny also has worked for over 10 years at the international and national level specializing in teacher induction, instructional coaching, and online professional learning. Jenny joined ACE in 2018 to return to her Montana roots.
The revolving door of teachers she experienced as both a student and teacher made her driven to make sure that every school leader and the teacher feels supported regardless of where they work.
Jenny knows that we can do better for our students by challenging our long-held traditions about grading and reporting. She is committed to having the courage and expertise to support Montana schools shift to research-based instruction, assessment, and grading.
Andrea Meiers – Consultant
Andrea began her career as a middle school Language Arts teacher in Powell, Wyoming shortly after graduating from Rocky Mountain College. After teaching for a short period and earning her Masters of Education Leadership, Andrea obtained her first administrative position as an assistant principal at Laurel Middle School and then moved into the role of principal. Andrea served as the full-time ACE executive director from 2014-2017. After three years with ACE, she became an assistant professor in the Education Department at Rocky Mountain College until spring 2020. Andrea currently is a curriculum director at Lockwood Schools.
Having a deep belief in the work of ACE, Andrea also has continued to be involved with the organization. She now works on a part-time basis providing guidance and support and presenting professional development occasionally.