Rate My Professor Jack Kern

Jack Kern serves as Teaching Professor of Physical Education in the Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation within the College of Education and Health Professions at the University of Arkansas. He joined the faculty in 1996, following his tenure at West Texas A&M University and a decade of experience teaching science and physical education in public schools. Kern's teaching portfolio includes courses in the teacher education program, graduate-level instruction in the online Master of Education in Physical Education program, and supervision of undergraduate students during their teaching internships at local schools. He pioneered a study abroad program to Ireland specifically designed for education students, enhancing international perspectives in physical education training. Additionally, Kern has demonstrated leadership as co-director of the Wally Cordes Teaching and Faculty Support Center during 2016-2019 and 2020-2021, where he advocated for non-tenure-track faculty equity and advanced the scholarship of teaching and learning.

Recognized for his dedication to student-centered pedagogy, Kern has garnered numerous accolades throughout his career. These include the Arkansas Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance Higher Educator of the Year award in 2006 and 2009, the College of Education and Health Professions Outstanding Advisor award in 2002, and departmental honors as Outstanding Teacher and Outstanding Faculty Member. In 2012, he was inducted into the University of Arkansas Teaching Academy as one of five new fellows. Other distinctions encompass selection as one of two Arkansas university representatives to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's School Health Education-Higher Education Academy in 2010 and recognition as the March Wally Cordes Chair Speaker by the Teaching and Faculty Support Center in 2023. Kern has contributed to his field through 12 authored or co-authored publications and more than 50 presentations at national, regional, and state conferences. His work underscores a profound impact on physical education pedagogy and faculty development at the University of Arkansas.