POPLAR BLUFF, Mo. (WSIL) -- Jenna Blackmon, a former cafeteria worker in the Poplar Bluff school system, has transitioned from serving meals to teaching fourth grade English language arts and social studies at the Middle School.

Blackmon, 37, returned to college after 13 years to finish her teaching degree, becoming a first-generation graduate. She expressed her motivation by saying, "I feel like I have more purpose; I feel like I’m contributing more, and have more stability financially," Blackmon said.

After leaving college to raise a family, Blackmon began working for Chartwells School Dining Services in 2013. Her mother discovered the job opening while settling a lunch balance. "That sounded fine. I love cooking," Blackmon said.

During the 2020 stay-at-home order, Blackmon heard abou

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