May 2023 National Teacher of the Month

The Teacher of the Month award is designed to recognize an employee that exemplifies our core values, which are compassion, humility, integrity, loyalty, and discipline. This month we are pleased to announce that our 2023 May National Teacher of the Month is Ms. Jessica of Little Sunshine’s Playhouse and Preschool of Granite Bay, CA.

In talking about how Ms. Jessica exemplifies LSP’s core values, Program Director, Ms. Marci said, “Jessica has been with us for over 3 years! She has helped create the most magical classroom for our preschoolers. She has also stepped into the head teacher position seamlessly while one of our head teachers was on maternity leave. Covering all bases while still teaching full-time. I admire her honesty and ability to communicate with the parent in a kind and loving way. Her love and patience for her students are great to see each day. Thank you for being such a huge part of our team Ms. Jessica, we love you!”

What age group do you teach?
Preschool

What is the name of your classroom?
Arendelle

What do you love most about the age group you teach?
What I love most about this age group is the eagerness to learn, the ability to retain and implement the information (little sponges!), the inquisitive questions, and the excitement for school! This age truly allows me to see the difference I am making in their lives and that in itself is incredibly rewarding.

What is your favorite curriculum project you’ve ever done in your classroom?

One of my favorite curriculum projects would have to be Valentine’s Day. It was a simple task of creating cards, decorating them, and writing a small message for parents and teachers who needed a little extra love. We made a basket of 50+ letters, each hand-crafted by students as a way of saying we see you, we love you, and you are worthy! We left a basket accessible all month within the classroom for those in need of a little extra love! Of all the great themes we’ve come across through the years, love was my favorite! Seeing the kiddos exemplify this and practice kindness made my heart jump for joy!

What do you enjoy most about working for LSP?
I enjoy the uniqueness of having my own classroom to call home where all are welcome. I’m able to reorganize and remodel in any fashion at any time to keep the kids excited, display my favorite teachings, and create a welcoming environment to establish relationships and friendships!

What made you want to become an early childhood educator?
I was a nursing student for three years before taking my first child development course. After this one class, I left bawling with a full heart and a calling that this is what I was meant to do! I immediately changed my major and went on to earn my Associate’s Degree in Science and a Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education! I wanted to become an instrument of inspiration and see the difference I can make in children’s lives to foster a love for learning and see them thrive day in and day out!

Who and/or what inspires you?
My coworker and best friend Emme is my biggest inspiration. She is the perfect example of a patient, kindhearted, ever-loving, and forgiving woman. She has sparked my passion for teaching since the day I met her and have since become the best teammates! I am eternally grateful to LSP for creating a forever friendship!

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
On my days off I enjoy beach days with a good book, Disney trips, hikes with my dog Rya, family time, and cooking up new recipes!

Tell us one special fact about yourself that no one would expect.
I have eight tattoos and three brothers!

We also want to say congratulations to all the nominees who are listed below. Thank you for all your hard work and dedication!

Juliana R. - Alpharetta

Youri R. – Broomfield

Emma D. – Chesterfield

Marisa H. – Colorado Springs

Emily W. – Cumming

Alex A. – Four Points

Payton S. - Franklin

Ryann D. – Gilbert – Val Vista

Sharon N. – Gilbert – Higley

Katelyn W. – Lakeway

Ryauna M. – Leawood

Glenda R - Littleton

Alyssa O. – O’Fallon

Olivia R. - Ozark

Shams L. – Parker

Araceli A. – Rogers

Jasmine G. – Roswell

Paola C. - San Antonio – Dominion

Sundra O. - San Antonio – Stone Oak

Julia E. – Schaumburg

Ashley – Scottsdale

Ashley S. - Southlake

Payton C. - Springfield I

Hailea H. - Springfield II

Tanya R. – Springfield III

Alyssa G. -The Woodlands

Payton L. – University City

Allie D. - Willowbrook