This is the latest in our “Weston Wednesday” series, spotlighting the winners of the 2024 Judy Weston Awards for Inspired Teaching. Follow along each week to learn more about the impact these educators are making in the Montclair Public Schools.
Jessica Dehn excels at supporting her third-grade students at Charles H. Bullock Elementary School, making them feel she's in their corner, and cheering their successes with genuine excitement. Those who nominated Dehn for a Weston Award noted that her encouragement and enthusiasm are unmatched. She sees each child’s unique personality and gifts. In the words of one of her nominators, she doesn't just help kids shine – she helps them GLOW!
One parent noted how truly thrilled Ms. Dehn was for their child when they passed their “monster math” test.
She helps children see themselves in a new light and have confidence in their abilities. Another parent said that under Dehn's leadership, their child feels – for the first time ever – that they are “good at math.” This accomplishment could only have happened, according to the parent, because of Dehn's masterful support of her child’s learning differences.
Parents appreciate that she regularly shares their child’s wins, emailing photos of special learning moments and genuinely celebrating their milestones throughout the year. But perhaps the most meaningful accolades come from students themselves. In the words of one:
“I like to be in [Ms. Dehn’s] class because she is kind and loving. She gives me responsibilities, like going to the cafeteria to fill a water bottle, and sometimes rewards me with a sticker. I like how she gives two tries when I get something wrong. She lets me do it again. I like how she helps me understand things when I need help understanding them. She helped me with a three-step problem by talking me through it. Thank you.”
Yes, Thank you Mr. Dehn, for helping students feel like independent, empowered and confident learners. It is among the many reasons why she is an inspired teacher.
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