Jantzi began her teaching career after earning an Associate’s Degree in Agricultural Science from Alfred State College, followed by both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Biology Secondary Education with a minor in Chemistry from SUNY Fredonia. She spent seven years teaching at Chautauqua Central School before continuing her career at Chautauqua Lake Central School for the next three decades.

During her time at Chautauqua Lake, Jantzi has taught a wide range of science courses, including seventh and eighth grade science, Regents and Honors Biology and Chemistry, Physics, and college-level courses through Jamestown Community College, such as Human Anatomy and Physiology and Chemistry. She has also played a key role in leading the science department and supporting curriculum development across multiple disciplines.

Jantzi became known in the school district for her emphasis on systems thinking and interconnected learning, consistently encouraging students to view science as a connected whole rather than isolated concepts. A phrase she would often tell her classes is “It IS the organization of it all,” reflecting her approach to teaching and understanding the natural world.

Jantzi has also advised and coached multiple extracurricular programs throughout her career, including cheerleading, Science Olympiad, Envirothon, and High School Bowl, expanding her students’ opportunities well beyond the classroom. She helped guide students through numerous academic milestones, competitions, and travel experiences, including trips to national academic bowl competitions in Washington, D.C. and New Orleans.

Mary Jantzi and this year’s Envirothon Team. Submitted photo

Under her leadership, Chautauqua Lake’s Envirothon teams became consistent contenders at both the county and state levels. The program has now earned 10 consecutive county championships.

In 2024, Chautauqua Lake teams placed first and third at the county competition, with the first-place team advancing to states, where they placed first in forestry and 11th overall out of 41 teams–just 1.33 points shy of a top 10 finish. Last year, a Chautauqua Lake team earned third place at the statewide competition and this year Chautauqua Lake placed third overall again in New York State and tied for first in current issues — nonpoint source pollution –, first in aquatics, second in oral presentation, third in soils, and fifth in wildlife.

For Chautauqua Lake, one of the most memorable moments of this year’s competition came when the team was announced as one of the top three Oral Presentation teams. This distinction earned them the opportunity to present their plan for addressing nonpoint source pollution before the entire assembly of competitors, judges, and New York State environmental leaders during the opening ceremony–an honor never before achieved by a team from Chautauqua County. Jantzi has served as the Envirothon coach for Chautauqua since 1993.

Chautauqua Lake’s High School Bowl program has likewise seen great success under Jantzi’s leadership, including recently returning to the National Academic Championship, competing in New Jersey, and adding another chapter to its long tradition of excellence. Their previous national appearance came during the 2023-2024 school year. According to longtime tournament producer Dennis Webster at the time, Chautauqua Lake and its predecessor schools have won seven championships throughout the known history of the competition–more than any other school, as reflected on the tournament’s rotating championship trophy. This year’s title made it the eighth time they received top honor, and Jantzi has been a part of every Chautauqua Lake championship since 2002. She began coaching the High School Bowl team in 1990.

Jantzi’s colleagues reflected on her time in the district with them. Beyond the results and accolades, they say her greatest impact has been her ability to spark curiosity, confidence and the love of learning in students.

Mary Jantzi is pictured with the 2026 Envirothon Team. Submitted photo

Connor Barnes, a fellow educator and coaching partner, described her influence as foundational.

“Her commitment to the learning process, desire to see students grow, and her value for knowledge in general have always been a good reminder of what teaching is all about,” Barnes said.

He also noted her ability to create meaningful student experiences beyond the classroom, adding that “her way of exciting students about the tournaments and celebrating their knowledge made all participants feel accomplished and part of a deeper community.”

Principal Rachel Curtin also reflected on Jantzi’s impact, noting that her “unstoppable energy, genuine love of students, and model of asking more questions and listening” will continue to influence both students and staff for years to come.

After 37 years, Jantzi leaves Chautauqua Lake Central School with a legacy defined by academic excellence, student achievement, and a lasting commitment to helping young people see connections in both science and life.

Mary Jantzi and her Human Anatomy class. Submitted photo

“None of my successes would have been possible without outstanding students, dedicated colleagues, supportive co-coaches, and administrators committed to academic excellence,” Jantzi said. “I have been fortunate to work with remarkable people throughout my career, and it has been a privilege to be part of their lives. While I look forward to the next chapter, I will greatly miss teaching–it has been an integral part of who I am.”

Superintendent Josh Liddell praised Jantzi for her work both in and out of the classroom.

“Mary Jantzi’s impact on Chautauqua Lake extends far beyond the classroom,” Liddell said. “Through her leadership of our Envirothon, Science Olympiad, and High School Bowl teams, she has inspired generations of students to pursue excellence, embrace challenges, and develop a lifelong love of learning. The championships, state-level success, and national recognition these programs have achieved are a testament to her dedication and passion. More importantly, Mary has helped countless students realize their potential and believe in themselves.”

Liddell added that Chautauqua Lake Central School has been fortunate to have Jantzi teaching in their district for so many years.

“What makes Mary truly special is who she is,” Liddell said. “She is an outstanding teacher, devoted mother/grandmother, and genuinely caring person who has positively impacted so many lives. Chautauqua Lake has been incredibly fortunate to have someone of Mary’s character and heart, and her legacy will continue to inspire our school community for years to come.”

Mary Jantzi will be retiring from Chautauqua Lake Central School after 37 years. Submitted photo

Junior, Eve Kushmaul who is a member of the Quiz Bowl Team and Envirothon team that went to States, also praised Jantzi as one of the best teachers she has ever had.

“Mrs. Jantzi is one of the most dedicated and humble teachers I’ve ever worked with,” she said. “She dedicates hours upon hours of her time to high school bowl and envirothon practices and competitions with no purpose other than to help us succeed. Although she would never take the credit for herself, it’s through her coaching and support that we’ve been able to go to states and nationals for envirothon and high school bowl. Thank you Mrs. Jantzi.”

The Chautauqua Lake Envirothon Team, winning first place at the county level. Submitted photo