New Biography Honors Memory of Special Education Teacher Jennifer Paulson

It has been just one year since the death of Jennifer Ann Paulson, a special education teacher at Birney Elementary School in South Tacoma. She was on her way to teach Friday morning class on Feb. 26, 2010, when she was shot and killed by a man who had been stalking her and against whom she had a restraining order.

To commemorate and honor Jennifer’s legacy, I have penned her biography, with special forwards by her mother and father. "A Life Well Lived: The Jennifer Paulson Story" is slated for release on March 15. All profits from her biography will be donated to charitable causes her family believes she would support.

As the next year passed, Jennifer’s family, friends, school and community have struggled with grief, heartbreak and confusion. Parents lost a daughter, brothers lost a sister, and students lost a teacher and mentor. But, the story of Jennifer Paulson lies not in her death, but in her life.    

“Jennifer was the kind of daughter every parent dreams of having,” said Ken Paulson as he remembers the life of his precious daughter. “You never know which goodbye could be your last to those you love.”

Jennifer Ann Paulson’s life is an example to us all. She received her bachelors degree in special education from Seattle Pacific University and her masters in education from the University of Washington, and spent time volunteering at Urban Promise Ministries with inner-city children in Delaware. From there, she began substitute teaching for schools in Pierce County.

Jennifer’s passion for teaching made her an advocate for special needs students. She believed every child could succeed, no matter what. It was a cause she poured her life into.

She was a full-time teacher at Birney Elementary School and worked diligently with kids from first to fifth grade. She worked closely with fellow teachers and parents to ensure the success of her students.

Although teaching was a driving force in Jennifer’s life, her commitment to her faith is what many people remember most about her. She believed in and trusted in the Lord to guide her life. She believed God put her on Earth for a specific reason and she did all she could to make sure her life counted. And it did.

Although the grief continues and will always linger on the hearts of those closest to Jennifer, her life has inspired many to pursue their reason for living and make every moment matter.   

"A Life Well Lived: The Jennifer Paulson Story" will be available for purchase at www.authorhouse.com or see www.JenniferAnnPaulson.com for purchasing link and more about the life and legacy of Jennifer Paulson.