Why did you become a teacher?

It was the culmination of many small events that impacted my decision to become a teacher.  From playing “school” with my siblings growing up and having impactful teachers as a student to volunteering in elementary classrooms as a high school student, becoming a teacher just seemed like a natural fit for me.

What is your greatest teaching moment?

The moments when I’m able to help a student or another teacher to the realization that they CAN do it are special to me.

Do you have a funny story to share?

I find that I laugh a lot throughout the school day.  The most recent laugh happened after the school year let out this past spring-- You see, my students realize quickly that I tell a lot of stories about my three cats, and last year, was no different!  In addition to cat stories, my class also heard about my travels to different cities and states, as a result of being selected National Rural Teacher of the Year in September.  One of my trips was to Texas.  We ended talking about Texas frequently last year, as a few of my students’ families also went to Texas for various reasons.

At the end of the year, I received a class book written by my students, and when asked what they thought their teacher would do this summer, one of them responded:

What is your advice to parents?

Feed your child’s curiosity!  Sometimes it’s the simplicity of paper, boxes, tape, and markers that lead to the neatest innovations.

What is your advice for teachers who are just starting out?

Some say that teaching is a science.  Others say it’s an art.  I say it’s a combination of both!  Perfecting your craft is a result of intentional reflection.  This will lead you to be the best you can be for your students and families.

What do you like best about Bloomz?

I’ll be using Bloomz for the first time this fall.  I selected Bloomz after a careful analysis of many options.  I am looking forward to streamlining my communication efforts by utilizing Bloomz and eliminating paper newsletters, my classroom blog, and other paper communication methods!

Recently named National Rural Teacher of the Year, Jessica Meacham is an elementary teacher with 18 years of experience. She currently teaches first grade and co-directs technology initiatives in her district in Door County, Wisconsin. Her website has impacted thousands of teachers world-wide, providing them with free teaching tips, resources, lessons, and ideas. Jessica began her teaching career in both inner city and suburban schools in Minneapolis and St. Paul. Twelve years ago, she moved to rural Wisconsin, where she considers it a privilege to live and teach in a rural community.