Julianne Jacob is a dynamic force for growth, resilience, and excellence at Central Community High School. Whether she’s teaching advanced algebra to freshmen, leading a competitive cheerleading team—one of the top programs in the State—or mentoring students through life’s challenges, Julianne’s work exemplifies the profound influence of dedicated educators.

Now in her 17th year at Central, Julianne has built a career defined by a dual commitment to academic rigor and athletic achievement. “I’m proud of the cheer family we’ve created here,” Julianne says. “And I’m equally proud of helping students realize that math isn’t something to fear—it’s something they can excel in.”

When Julianne took the reins as varsity cheerleading coach, the program was at a crossroads. Central’s cheerleaders had competed at state only once, with a single top-ten finish. Today, under her leadership, the team has qualified for state in all but two of her 16 seasons, earning eight trophies and widespread recognition.

“At first, we had to decide what kind of team we wanted to be,” Julianne recalls. “We agreed to work hard, stay disciplined, and build something we could all be proud of.”

That foundation has flourished into a program that blends athleticism, precision, and camaraderie. Central’s cheerleaders now prepare year-round, mastering complex stunts and routines that demand trust and teamwork. “Cheerleading teaches skills that go far beyond the mat,” Julianne explains. “It’s about communication, empathy, and stepping outside your comfort zone.”

Her athletes also embrace community service, participating in projects like mental health awareness walks, childhood cancer fundraisers, and snack pack drives for local families. “I let the kids choose the causes they care about,” Julianne says. “It’s amazing to see their passion for giving back.”

This commitment to service is mirrored in the broader community’s support for the program. From alumni to parents, volunteers flock to Central’s annual cheerleading competition to help with everything from setup to timing to helping with warm-ups and more. “The bonds we’ve built extend far beyond high school,” Julianne says. “That’s what makes this program so special.”

In the classroom, Julianne tackles another common challenge: helping students find confidence in mathematics. Teaching advanced algebra, geometry, and other courses, she works to demystify concepts and foster a growth mindset.

“Anyone can be good at math,” Julianne says. “It’s all about building confidence. Mistakes aren’t failures—they’re opportunities to learn.”

Her innovative approaches include a summer Math Academy for incoming freshmen. The program bridges gaps in foundational knowledge, allowing qualifying students to skip Algebra I and jump straight into geometry. “It’s a game-changer for students who want to pursue advanced courses like calculus,” Julianne explains.

Central’s math curriculum is designed to meet students where they are while preparing them for the future. From trades to advanced STEM fields, Julianne emphasizes math’s relevance across all career paths. “Whether you’re a welder or a researcher, math is essential,” she says. “I want my students to see its value and feel prepared to succeed.”

For Julianne, the key to Central’s success lies in its people. “Our administration treats us like professionals and supports our vision,” she says. “That empowers us to do the same for our students.”

She describes the faculty as a close-knit family, sharing meals, attending each other’s events, and working together to create a student-first culture. “That camaraderie is rare,” Julianne says. “It makes Central a special place to teach and learn.”

Her connection to the community extends beyond the school. Living in nearby Aviston with her husband and three daughters, Julianne is deeply rooted in the area’s small-town values. “Central feels a lot like my own high school in Colfax,” she says. “It’s a consolidation of rural towns with a tight-knit, supportive atmosphere.”

Reflecting on her career, Julianne is proudest of the legacy she’s built through cheerleading. “The success of this program isn’t just about trophies,” she says. “It’s about the lives we’ve touched and the lessons we’ve shared.”

She points to alumni who return to volunteer, parents who continue to support the team long after their children graduate, and students who carry the program’s values into adulthood. “We’re building something that lasts,” Julianne says. “And that’s what makes this work so rewarding.”

For Julianne Jacob, teaching and coaching are more than jobs—they’re opportunities to shape lives, strengthen community bonds, and inspire the next generation. At Central Community High School, her impact is as enduring as the lessons she teaches.