INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK: Jessica Moore, Windermere High School

Jessica Moore is an English 1 and 2 teacher at Windermere High School. She was Teacher of the Year in 2015. This school year, Moore worked with students to establish the school’s first literary magazine, “The Windy Word.”

Sophia Strelecky, a Windermere High junior, said Moore is an incredible teacher.

“Ms. Moore is a truly inspirational teacher and individual,” she said. “She pours her whole self into ensuring when her students walk out of her class, they have grown not only academically but personally as well. Her dedication to her students’ education is immeasurable, as she is one of the only teachers teaching a full seven periods and can be found most days grading even after school hours have ended.”

What brought you to your school?

After spending over a decade teaching middle school, I was ready for a new challenge. The opportunity to teach at my neighborhood high school felt like the perfect next step. I’ve been at Windermere High School for six years. 

What do you love most about your school?

I love how each day presents new opportunities to ignite curiosity in students from all backgrounds. Over the last few months, I have welcomed new students from China and Palestine. 

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

When my students start to seek out constructive criticism instead of fearing it, that’s when I know we’ve built something special. It’s those students who come back years later and say, “You pushed me because you believed in me.” It’s especially meaningful when they trust me to write about personal struggles in their essays, knowing I’ll honor their vulnerability while still pushing them to strengthen their voice. 

 What would you be if you weren’t in this profession?

I wanted to be a lawyer. I worked in the legal field as an associate director of marketing before transitioning to teaching. 

Who influences you?

My daughters, Madeline, 23, Mallory, 21, and Marris, 17, influence how I move through the world. They strengthen my worldview, my courage and my empathy.  

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why?

Ms. Nancy Butera was my favorite. I think she was my middle school history teacher. She was fiercely organized. She always wore long skirts, heels and red lipstick. She was a true professional and highly expectant. She had consistent classroom routines. It’s funny the things that stick after all these years.

 What is your favorite children’s book and why?

“The Giver” by Lois Lowry is one of my favorite books, because Jonas embodies the spirit of questioning that I try to nurture in my students. Like Jonas, I’ve always been one to challenge the status quo and push back against “that’s just how things are.” His journey from blind acceptance to critical awareness mirrors what I hope to inspire in my classroom. 

What do you like to do in your spare time?

(Because) I will be 50 at the end of March, I have evolved into spending my best geriatric life wandering through the Lowe’s Garden Center like I’m on some sort of botanical expedition. I also work on the weekends. I get excited about planning lessons and academic games. Like, legitimately excited. 

 If you could dine with any famous person, past or present, who would it be and why?

I can’t answer this one authentically. It would be political. I plead the Fifth.

 If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

If I could have any superpower, it would be the ability to pause time. Not because I need more hours to grade essays (although that would be nice!) but because I would use it to make sure every student gets the individual attention they deserve. As a teacher and mother of three young adult daughters, I’d also use it to savor those fleeting moments when my family is all together. 

If you could only listen to three bands or artists, who would they be and why?

Sara Bareilles, Leon Bridges and anything classical. This music reflects all aspects of my life. Mom, wife and teacher. 

What was your go-to lunch and favorite snack as a student?

My favorite snack was the classic oatmeal pie.

What is your favorite holiday and why?

Christmas. Christmas. Christmas. I AM Santa’s favorite teacher!

Who was your best friend when you were in school and why? Are you still in touch?

David Moore was my best friend in high school. I married him, and then I had three more best friends.