Empowering Students to See Their Impact Through Insight School of Washington’s Middle School ASB Club

At Insight School of Washington (ISWA), learning extends far beyond the virtual classroom. For middle school science teacher Nathan Jaber, education is about more than formulas and experiments. It’s about helping students see the power they have to make a difference.

“The things I do can affect this world,” Mr. Jaber says. “I’m not an island. I want students to become critical thinkers, independent learners, and confident leaders.”

Now in his sixth-year teaching science at ISWA and third year advising the middle school Associated Student Body (ASB) Club, Mr. Jaber is passionate about creating opportunities for students to connect, collaborate, and grow together; especially in an online environment.

Building Connection and Leadership Virtually

The middle school ASB Club serves as a student-led organization where members plan activities, community projects, and events that bring the school community closer together. With 24 students currently involved and three officers elected, Mr. Jaber guides the student-led club as they learn how to turn ideas into reality.

Students meet every Tuesday for thirty minutes to brainstorm new ways to engage their classmates, from monthly movie nights and themed game nights to creative fundraisers and school spirit activities.

At a recent meeting, the group announced their newly elected officers and quickly planned an upcoming movie night and costume party. Students quickly collaborated in Canvas to design and post the announcement, showcasing their teamwork and creativity. Using tools like Miro boards, they continued to exchange ideas, assigned roles, and learned how to bring their projects from concept to completion.

“Our goal is to create shared experiences,” Mr. Jaber explains. “When students see their vision come to life, whether it’s a fundraiser, a social event, or a new initiative; they realize their voices matter.”

Cultivating Confidence and Community

For Mr. Jaber, teaching at ISWA is about helping students build confidence and capability, both online and off. Each ASB club meeting doubles as a lesson in leadership. It helps students learn to communicate, problem-solve, and think critically about how to make school life better for everyone.

Some of the club’s highlights from previous years include informal in-person meetups like zoo visits and group hikes, experiences that help students form genuine friendships and connect beyond the screen. Mr. Jaber is also collaborating with ISWA’s High School ASB and esports club advisors to explore new ways to expand student participation and mentorship across grade levels.

A Teacher Who Leads by Example

Mr. Jaber lives in Rochester, Washington, near Olympia, with his wife and their two dogs. When he’s not teaching, you’ll likely find him hiking, biking, at the gym, or immersed in storytelling through books, films, and tabletop games.

“Everyone deserves grace and the chance to learn from their mistakes,” Mr. Jaber says. “That’s how we grow stronger, feel capable, and use our power to help others. That’s what keeps me going and what I hope to instill in my students every day.”

Through his leadership and dedication, Mr. Jaber continues to prove that even in a virtual environment, connection and community can thrive. He’s proud that ISWA’s students are learning not just science, but the science of self-confidence, creativity, and compassion through clubs like ASB.