INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK: Jessica Sinanan, Independence Elementary School

Jessica Sinanan is an instructional coach at Independence Elementary School. She is responsible for supporting and coaching teachers through instructional planning and co-teaching, data collection and analysis, teaching reading and math small groups to at-risk students, and facilitating Science of Reading professional development. She also assists with bus arrival and dismissal as well as breakfast and lunch.

Sinanan also is the after-school tutoring program coordinator, coordinates Multicultural Night, co-leads the Literacy Committee and Literacy Night with the school’s media specialist and co-leads STEAM Night with the school’s academic coach. 

A colleague nominated her for the Golden Spoon Award for providing support with instruction and being willing to collaborate. 

“She works daily with teachers and students to improve our students’ education,” Principal Jeff Peters said. “Through her actions, our teachers become better educators, and our students’ learning is enhanced.”

What brought you to your school? 

When I moved to Florida in 2023, I desired to find a close-knit school community. Throughout my first year in Florida, I kept an eye on job openings for a leadership position at Independence Elementary, because it reminded me of the school I came from on the South Shore of Boston. Situated in the heart of a community with high expectations for learning, when the opportunity presented itself to join as an instructional coach, Mr. Peters graciously brought me onto his team. 

What do you love most about your school? 

I love the people I work with and how Independence Elementary has the small-town community feel. Teachers and students alike are happy to be there, greet you each day with a warm smile and put forth their best effort. It is a community that desires excellence in all areas and works collaboratively for the success of all students. 

What is the most rewarding part of your job? 

As an instructional coach, the most rewarding part of my job is having the opportunity to work with teachers and students across grade levels to enhance instruction. All students deserve a world-class education, and I am blessed with the opportunity to work with so many incredible teachers who support students each and every day.

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

When I was in elementary school, I had a unique experience from kindergarten to third grade. I attended a one-room schoolhouse in a small town in northern New Hampshire, with the same teacher, Ms. Sandborn, for all four years. She fulfilled every role from principal to teacher, to nurse and more and helped me discover my love of learning by giving me old curriculum materials I used at home to play “school.” 

Who influences you? 

In everything I do, I desire to make my family proud. They encourage me to be my best, support me through difficult times and are my greatest cheerleaders in life. 

What is your favorite children’s book and why? 

While I have many favorite children’s books now, when I was a child, my favorite book was “The Tale of Despereaux” by Kate DiCamillo. It is a story of the power of love, hope, courage, forgiveness and compassion. I believe that story sparked my love for reading that would come years later. 

What do you like to do in your spare time? 

You can catch me at the local farmers markets, enjoying the beach or sitting outside with a good book. During summer vacation, I visit my family in northern New Hampshire and hike a mountain or two. I take every opportunity I have to be outside enjoying nature.

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

I would dine with Albert Einstein. I would love to learn more about how he overcame challenges with his learning to become one of the most influential scientists in history. 

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

The only time I bought school lunch was on grilled cheese and tomato soup day. I used to love seeing it on the lunch menu and got excited to buy lunch with my friends. To this day, I rarely turn down grilled cheese and tomato soup at a restaurant.

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

Growing up, I had a friend named Rachel, and we remained close friends through elementary, middle and high school. We are still in touch through social media and attended each others’ weddings in 2017 and 2019. 

What were your extracurricular activities as a student? Did you win any accolades or honors? 

I played basketball in elementary and middle school. In middle and high school, I was a member of the Junior National Honor Society and National Honor Society. During high school, I focused primarily on academics and was awarded the Daughters of the American Revolution Scholarship and graduated valedictorian.