Jesse Wren

Athlete, Educator/Teacher, Explorer, Gay, Student, World traveler

Jesse Wren, originally from Ironton, Missouri, graduated from Truman State University as a Pershing Scholar with a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Education Studies in 2022, a Master of Arts in Elementary Education in 2023, and a Master of Arts in Gifted Education in December 2024. Wren is currently pursuing his Doctor of Education in Education and Leadership (K-12 Concentration) and will graduate in May 2026. His research focuses on lifting the voices of marginalized elementary educators and exploring the historical experiences that have shaped current attitudes and policies. He currently serves as a lower school teacher in Tulsa, Oklahoma, at Riverfield Country Day School, where he is dedicated to student engagement and innovation. Wren was chosen as one of 30 teachers across the country to be a member of the 2023 cohort for The National Air and Space Museum's Teacher Innovator Institute (TII). During his time in Washington, DC, and throughout the school year, he researches authentic learning, including the incorporation of real-world problems, open-ended inquiry, and hands-on, student-driven practices. Furthermore, Wren has been recognized for his outstanding efforts in securing classroom grants, having been awarded more than $100,000 in funding. Wren is a member of the National Science Teaching Association, American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Gifted Association of Missouri, Missouri State Teachers Association, Iron County Health Coalition, Four Star Leadership Alumni Advisory Board, Arcadia Valley Alumni Association, and Missouri Boys State Volunteer Staff. He also previously served as a National Board of Director for Blue Key Honor Society. When he is not in the classroom or volunteering, Wren enjoys traveling, being outdoors, working with the Prison Education Project, and preparing for his solo 500-mile hike from France to Spain in 2025.

lifelong learning, amplifying untold stories (including those from death row), engaging in meaningful conversations, connecting with people from all walks of life, exploring the world, and making a difference through education and volunteerism.

Education can be the most radical form of justice reform.

finding beauty and meaning in ordinary moments; writing grants; storytelling