Lincoln Academy first grade teacher Maria Jelinek is interviewed in her classroom about how she and her students dealt with the cancer diagnosis, battle and eventual passing of classmate Savannah Myrick.
The Jeffco Schools Foundation has honored heroes in Jeffco Public Schools for the past 13 years. This long-standing tradition recognizes outstanding teachers and high school seniors who demonstrate extraordinary character, leadership, and strength. Students and teachers are nominated by their principals, and the final honorees are chosen by a volunteer selection committee comprised of community representatives and the Jeffco Schools Foundation Board members. Meet 2015 honoree Maria Jelinek.
Life at Lincoln Academy Charter School continues despite a painful loss. Inside one first grade classroom lies a vacant desk, garnished with flowers and a box full of memories. The desk belonged to Savannah Myrick.
After one remission and a second fight with cancer, Savannah’s fight ended earlier this fall. Her teacher, Maria Jelinek, makes sure Savannah’s memory endures both in the classroom and out. For this, Jelinek is honored with one of this year’s Jeffco Hero Awards.
Lincoln Academy School Psychologist Kathy Sievering lauded Jelinek for opening her heart to Savannah, even before the tragedy arose.
“The fact that she knew Savannah was going to be in her classroom, even before school started…” said Sievering, “she didn’t hesitate, despite having (cancer) in her own family. She just decided she was going to be there for this child no matter what.”
Although she was fighting a worsening disease, the beaming Savannah showed up to school excited to learn, just like every other student. Jelinek put herself in the child’s shoes and ensured that she could experience education to the fullest, undeterred by her restraints.
“She was just really excited to be here,” said Jelinek. “There were times when she couldn’t participate in whatever we were doing: dance parties, because her legs hurt. So, I would have her come and control the music instead, and still be a part of it somehow.”
Jelinek remained in constant contact with Savannah’s parents – she even visited the family home while Savannah was in hospice, making sure to bring her things that would put a smile on her face. Finally, Savannah’s immune system was too compromised to continue the fight, and on September 26, she passed away.
Jelinek crafted a memory box for Savannah in which students placed hand written memories of their time with their friend. Jelinek wanted to give the students a sense of closure while protecting Savannah’s memory.
“It’s a constant thing; we still have questions today,” said Jelinek. “It’s hard,” she said when asked about her reaction to being honored as a Jeffco Hero. “I’ve had a mixed feeling to be honest. It’s a great honor to receive an award. It’s not a club you want to be a part of, but it’s reality… this isn’t a situation you ever wish upon anybody, and the fact that it was recognized is wonderful because any teacher hopefully would do something similar.”
Jelinek led her first grade class through Savannah’s cancer battle and passing. Today, she continues to help Savannah’s classmate come to terms with the situation.
“When told she got the award,” said Sievering, “the first thing she said was ‘this is for everybody, not me.’ That’s how she is. She doesn’t think that what she does is unique, but it is. She has a gift for being a teacher.”
Lincoln Academy Principal Janelle Johnson could think of no better teacher for Savannah.
“We knew right away that Savannah needed to be in Maria’s class,” said Johnson. “It was without hesitation… because she’s just so nurturing and encouraging and provides that educational culture and environment that would support Savannah.”
In a classroom decorated with flourishes of purple, Savannah’s favorite color, the memory of a student and dear friend lives on. Her teacher, Maria Jelinek, makes sure of it.
See the JPS-TV version of this story here.