The community of Shipley's Choice is mourning the loss of a dynamic and inspirational teacher, Karen Jauschnegg who passed away April 21 after a lengthy battle with cancer. 

A teacher in Anne Arundel County for 37 years, Jauschnegg spent the last 10 years at Shipley's Choice Elementary School where she made a positive impact on her students with her quick smile and nurturing personality. 

Her way with children had a lasting impression.  According to an e-mail from Caroline Johnson, a senior at Severna Park High School, Jauschnegg: " Inspired creativity through imaginative project assignments that required the students emerging themselves into character from history,a poem or story."

"This unique style gave the students a greater knowledge the subject they were studying and made the class fun and interesting. She was a wonderful teacher who filled the classroom with enthusiasm and demonstrated a genuine love for her students."

Jauschnegg also shared her infectious joy with co-workers at the school. Fellow teacher and friend, Suzanne Kaser stated:

"I guess most importantly it should be known that she had the gift to make everyone feel wonderful. She could find unbelievable ways to celebrate the successes in students and all those around her.  She truly appreciated life and the many joys in it."

"Even a situation that seemed impossible to overcome would seem possible after talking and even laughing with her.  I believe that anyone who knew her will always cherish the time they had with her and will remember her  for her strength, her wisdom, and her love of laughter. She  was a true inspiration to us all." 

In addition, co-workers Debra Hathorne, Lucy Nash and Carole Kriewald added in an e-mail:

"We worked with Karen for many years.  Karen had such a love of learning which she transferred to her students.  Her enthusiasm and warmth were contagious.  She loved each and every student."

"Karen always had time to listen to their stories and hear about special family moments.  Not only was she devoted to school, but her family and church.  We will miss her smile, laugh, and especially her spirit." 

Shipley's principal Rocco Ferretti shared in a letter home to parents:

"Just a few weeks ago I talked to Mrs. Jauschnegg, as she slowly walked up the hallway, and I asked her, "Karen, why do you still come into work each morning. I know you are in a lot of pain. You should just stay home where you can be more comfortable and relax."

"Mrs. Jauschnegg told me: "Rocco, my students are my best medicine, they take away all of my worries and all of my pain."

"She was truly an honor to her profession," Ferretti said.

Karen Jauschnegg's funeral will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday (April 28) at the Severna Park United Methodist Church.

Donations in Karen Jauschnegg's memory can be made to :  Anne Arundel Medical Center Breast Center Health Science Pavillion, 2001 Medical Parkway Annapolis, MD,  21401.