When Cedar Hill Middle School teacher Jennifer Reeson-Ho launched Operation Snowball two decades ago, she had no idea it would evolve into a full-fledged fundraiser, collecting thousands of dollars, goods, and food for those in need across the region.

Started in 2004, the initiative has grown into a combined community and school food drive culminating in an end-of-year celebration where the total food and funds raised are announced. Last year, that number was over $5,000 and 1,020 boxes of food for the Shelbourne Community Kitchen. 

This year marks a significant milestone, as Reeson-Ho will lead the operation for the final time after 33 years of teaching. However, the program's future is in good hands, as she will pass the torch to her daughter and fellow teacher, Jessica.

鈥淏eing a teacher is about chasing 'lightbulb moments,'鈥� Reeson-Ho said, recalling her own journey. 鈥淚 experienced my first one in high school [and] my mom said she gets that rewarding feeling every day as a teacher. I was hooked.鈥�

Transferring her passion for teaching to her daughter, Jessica manifested her interests early on. As a child, she turned her room into a classroom, teaching her pets. Later she overcame her fear of public speaking. Now, in her first year at Cedar Hill, Jessica reflects on the chance she has to have her mother as a guiding figure. 

鈥淗aving my mom as a mentor has been unique,鈥� Jessica said. 鈥淪eeing her connect with students and families inspires me to grow into the kind of supportive and invested teacher she has always been.鈥�

While for some retirement is a long-awaited moment, for Jennifer it represents a bittersweet moment. 

鈥淭his school has been my second home for some time, and the staff have been my family,鈥� she said. 鈥淎lthough retirement will include many exciting adventures鈥�  I know I鈥檒l stay in touch with the school. I look forward to volunteering in Jessica鈥檚 class to witness more 'lightbulb moments.'

鈥淎fter all, teaching never really leaves you.鈥�