For Pahrump Valley High School alumna Jessica Kern, Class of 2022, the path from standout student-athlete to aspiring educator and coach has been shaped by perseverance, meaningful relationships and a deep love for both athletics and mentorship.
During her time at PVHS, Kern made a lasting impact both in the classroom and in competition. A dedicated member of the track and field program, she found not only success, but a sense of belonging that would help define her high school experience. She recalls her fondest memories not as a single moment, but as the daily routines that made PVHS feel like home.
“My teammates and coaches were amazing,” Kern said. “Even on the rough days, I still looked forward to seeing them.”
Her high school years were filled with notable achievements. Kern earned Regional Champion titles in both shot put and discus, while also finishing as state runner-up in both events—an impressive accomplishment that solidified her as one of the program’s top competitors. In the classroom, she maintained a 3.8 GPA and earned honor roll recognition every year, demonstrating the same level of commitment to academics as she did to athletics.
Beyond sports, Kern also valued unique educational experiences, including a memorable visit from local Search and Rescue personnel, who taught students survival skills and shared insight into desert rescue operations—an experience that left a lasting impression.
After graduating from PVHS, Kern continued her journey at Southwestern Oklahoma State University in Weatherford, Oklahoma. There, she pursued a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science and competed on the university’s women’s track team for three and a half years before medically retiring from competition.
While her collegiate athletic career was cut short, Kern remained deeply involved in the sport. One of her proudest accomplishments has been working in the training room as a student athletic trainer, gaining hands-on experience and further strengthening her understanding of the human body—an area that has long fascinated her.
“I’ve always loved anything dealing with the body and how it works and moves,” she said.
Her passion for working with young people ultimately led her to pursue a future in education and coaching. Now a full-time student preparing to graduate in May 2026, Kern hopes to secure a teaching and coaching position at the high school level, where she can inspire and guide the next generation of athletes.
“I’d love to coach athletes to state, but also just be an adult that my students and athletes can come to,” she said.
Kern’s journey has not been without challenges. She has faced both physical and mental obstacles, including multiple knee injuries that required four surgeries, as well as struggles with mental health during her college years. Through it all, she credits the support of those around her for helping her push forward.
“The people around me helped me every day to get out of that mindset and see that I had so much to live for,” Kern shared.
She also found renewed purpose through coaching, particularly when encouraged by one of her college coaches to work with middle school athletes. That experience helped her rediscover her love for the sport and reinforced her desire to pursue coaching as a career.
Throughout her life, several individuals have played a pivotal role in shaping who she is today. She credits her high school coach, Ellie Thongstisubskul, and her husband—whom she affectionately calls “Team Dad”—for their unwavering support, as well as her sister Jasmine, who she describes as her “rock.” She also credits her college coaches—Jen, Bell, Alize, Lex, Kam and Dakota—who pushed her when she felt she couldn’t go any further and believed in her when she struggled to believe in herself.
Even now, Kern maintains strong ties to PVHS, staying in contact with her throws coach and recently returning to help work with the team—coming full circle as she begins to step into a mentorship role herself.
One of the most important lessons she carries with her from high school into everyday life is simple, yet powerful: kindness.
“It can turn someone’s day around for sure,” she said. “Just a smile or saying something kind can make a huge difference.”
Kern has also learned to embrace the present and not take opportunities for granted, a mindset shaped by both her triumphs and her challenges.
“Make memories because those last a lifetime,” she said. “We literally live on a spinning rock—who cares? Just have fun.”
Outside of her academic and athletic pursuits, Kern enjoys spending time with family, especially her nieces and nephew, who she says are like her own children. A self-described homebody, she values quiet time, game nights and meaningful connections with those closest to her.
Looking ahead, Kern is excited for what the future holds. With graduation on the horizon, she is preparing to take the next steps into adulthood—landing her first full-time position and moving into her own place.
Reflecting on her journey so far, she remains grateful for every opportunity and challenge that has shaped her.
“My hard work got me here, but a lot of it came from the PVHS track team and the coaches,” Kern said. “It hasn’t been easy, but I wouldn’t change it for the world. Little me would be so proud of what I’ve accomplished. I’m living my 10-year-old dream.”
As she continues forward, Kern hopes to make a lasting impact wherever she goes—just as her coaches, teammates and mentors have done for her.
