Jennifer Leinbach was a force of light — passionate, caring, and endlessly devoted to the people around her. She approached life with a contagious smile, an open heart, and a determination that inspired everyone she met. Whether she was teaching, coaching, or simply being a friend, Jen believed in people — especially those who struggled to believe in themselves. When she set her mind to something, she gave it her whole heart and saw it through, always with kindness, humor, and grace.

The Roots of a Calling

Jen’s love for teaching and her lifelong connection to athletics took root early. During her years as a student at Cocalico High School, she discovered her calling to become a teacher. She was a dedicated student, a member of both the volleyball team and the cheerleading squad, and an active part of her school community. Those experiences sparked her passion for education, teamwork, and mentorship — the very values that would guide her throughout her life.

Her first experience as a coach came at Cocalico, where she helped lead the Junior High Cheerleading team. It was there that she found the joy of helping young people discover confidence, discipline, and pride in themselves.

Jen went on to attend Penn State University Berks Campus, where she continued her athletic journey, playing college volleyball while pursuing her degree in education. Her years there further shaped her belief that sports and academics go hand in hand — both offering powerful lessons in resilience, teamwork, and heart.

"[She] embodied everything we hope our athletes will become." - Cocalico Cheerleading

The Teacher and Mentor

Teaching wasn’t just Jen’s career — it was her calling. As a teacher, she had a unique gift for connecting with her students on a personal level, helping them discover not only the meaning within the pages of a book, but also the potential within themselves. Her classroom was a place of encouragement, laughter, and belonging. She was the teacher who stayed late to listen, who showed up to her students’ games, and who made every one of them feel seen and valued.

Her dedication extended far beyond her classroom walls. Jen served as class advisor for the 8th grade at Salem School, guiding her students through milestones and challenges with empathy and enthusiasm. She also revived a beloved school tradition by re-establishing the class trip to Washington, D.C., ensuring her students could experience the wonder and learning that comes from exploring the world beyond their hometown. Her colleagues and administrators respected her deeply, not only for her excellence as an educator, but for the integrity and compassion she brought to everything she did. Her recent election as union president reflected the trust her peers placed in her leadership and vision.

IN CASE NO ONE

TOLD YOU TODAY:

hello

GOOD MORNING

you belong here

you're doing great

I BELIEVE IN YOU

The Coach and Leader

Jen’s love of teaching extended seamlessly into coaching. She founded the volleyball team at Sayles School in Baltic, Connecticut, and later, after joining Salem School, she built their volleyball program from the ground up as well. For her players, Jen was more than a coach; she was a mentor, a motivator, and a steadfast supporter. She built teams rooted in camaraderie, respect, and joy — and she always reminded her athletes to play with heart.

She often spoke of the importance of having a “love of the game,” and that philosophy became central to her coaching style. Winning was never the goal; growth, teamwork, and passion were. Her players learned not only how to compete, but how to believe in themselves and in one another.

Beyond her school programs, Jen also coached a club volleyball team in Essex, Connecticut, where she continued to inspire young athletes to reach their fullest potential. Her players admired her strength and leadership, but even more so her warmth — the way she made each of them feel valued, both on and off the court.

"She wasn't just my teacher and coach, she was someone who truly changed my life.

She was my friend." - H. Fletcher

The Heart Beyond the Classroom

Outside of her work, Jen was full of life and curiosity. She was an avid reader who found comfort and adventure in stories. She loved hiking, going to the beach, and catching the sunrise — finding peace and beauty in the world around her. She and her husband cherished every shared moment, from quiet mornings to spontaneous trips, from simple dinners to long conversations that stretched into the night. Nothing had to be extravagant to be special; for Jen, being together was enough to make it perfect.

She loved attending her students’ sporting events, cheering from the stands, often with her husband and their dog by her side. Her life was a beautiful balance of purpose and joy, of hard work and gratitude for the little things that made each day meaningful.

Her Enduring Legacy

Jen’s legacy lives on through the Jennifer Leinbach Foundation — a continuation of her life’s mission to uplift others. The foundation supports scholarships and programs that benefit the academic and athletic communities at Salem School, where she taught, and Cocalico High School, her alma mater. Through these efforts, Jen’s belief in the power of education, teamwork, and kindness continues to touch lives.

To those who knew her, Jen was a beacon of light — someone who radiated positivity, lifted spirits, and saw the best in everyone. To those who come to know her through this foundation, her story stands as a reminder that one person’s passion and compassion can ripple outward, shaping countless futures.

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