Pushing Limits, Embracing Challenges: How Coach Jill Henry Inspires Students at Flintridge Prep

“I love playing outside,” says Jill Henry, math teacher and girls cross country teacher. “Camping, hiking, trail running, swimming, paddle-boarding, intense lawn games—the list goes on. If I can wear gym clothes while doing it, I’m a fan.”

That same love for adventure and pushing boundaries shapes how she teaches and coaches.

“I aim to provide my students and athletes with opportunities to challenge themselves. The alumni I keep in touch with don’t recall the easy problems they solved in class or the recovery runs during practice they remember conquering tough challenges, like running five miles at altitude up Old Mammoth Rock Trail or solving 600 word problems in a five-week summer class. Succeeding at something difficult because you were tenacious and gave it your all leaves a lasting impact. It can fundamentally change how you see yourself and what you believe you’re capable of. I hope my legacy is that I encouraged those around me to embrace hard things and was always an enthusiastic supporter of their successes, both big and small.”

Want to meet more committed Flintridge Prep faculty members like Ms. Henry?

“Check out FPS faculty profiles page on our website for more profiles!”

Flintridge Preparatory School, 4543 Crown Ave., La Cañada Flintridge, (818) 790-1178 or visit  www.flintridgeprep.org.