I am pleased and honored to serve the Jennings Community School community as your Executive Director. I am inspired by the work done over the years to support student success, and I look forward to getting to know more about this work and the people who do the work. 

I bring over two decades of experience as an educator and administrator, with a deep-rooted commitment to equity, student-centered learning, and alternative education. Throughout my career, I have championed inclusive practices, advocated for trauma-informed approaches, and cultivated environments where every student has the opportunity to thrive. I’ve had the privilege of serving in both urban and rural districts, where I worked to improve graduation rates, expand equitable learning models, and nurture cultures of restorative practice and belonging. 

I’ve been known for leading with purpose and passion—whether that means driving strategic initiatives, fostering collaborative staff cultures, or building meaningful relationships with students, families, and community partners. I hold a Master of Arts in Elementary Education from the University of St. Thomas and a K–12 Administrative License from Saint Mary’s University. 

Outside of school leadership, I enjoy camping with my family, coaching my son’s sports teams, golfing, and cooking on the Blackstone. I’m a lifelong (and long-suffering!) Minnesota Vikings fan, and I make it a point to recharge each year with a trip to a tropical beach. These experiences keep me grounded, grateful, and ready to give my all to the Jennings community.

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My name is Kristyn Martin, and I have been involved with alternative education since 2003. I am a big believer that one size does not fit all and I have been able to learn from and work with some amazing educators throughout my career. I started at Jennings CLC in the Fall of 2008 and during my experience here I have been able to take students on a variety of educational trips and MAAP STARS events. I enjoy guiding student learning in a variety of subjects but I take special interest in the areas of Physical Education and Career/Work Base Learning. I have been a member of MAAP (Minnesota Association of Alternative Programs) since 2004, and I am currently the Central Metro Regional Director for MAAP and Officer Coordinator for MAAP STARS. I believe in the Community Learning Center model and Jennings’ commitment to it. Engage, Inspire, Grow!

Liz graduated from the College of Saint Benedict in 2015 with a degree in psychology. Following graduation, Liz worked for Hennepin County, working with adults with severe brain injuries, helping them reintegrate into the community. Liz became connected with Jennings Community School in 2018 while working with various schools teaching healthy relationships/life skills education.

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Upon working with Jennings Community School, Liz knew it was a special place and found her desire to work with the students and staff full time. Liz has thoroughly enjoyed working in an experiential learning and more nurturing school environment. She looks forward to growing her own learning as she continues to work with students and staff at Jennings!

Alicia Chavez-Mena, a Saint Paul native, brings over 20 years of experience in education and a deep passion for her work. She’s an invaluable team member who looks forward to each new year with enthusiasm. Outside of her professional life, Alicia enjoys nature, camping, sports, and good food.

Alicia manages numerous roles within our community: she serves on the Board, travels with students, helps lead MAAP Stars, runs the community room, and is the main contact for community and family outreach. She also acts as a liaison for Latino communities, teaches classes, helps with recruitment, lunch duties, communication, and Spanish translation, among other tasks.

Her completion of Developmental Design Training and years of experience has enhanced her ability to foster equity, integration, and diversity in both school and community settings. Alicia is instrumental in creating and leading committees focused on anti-bullying, restorative justice, equity, and community involvement. Her work at Jennings has resulted in the development of important learning opportunities and support systems that extend beyond the school.