I took a bit of a hiatus over the summer with the Teacher Features but am bringing it back because I loved working with the teachers and highlighting them each week. From the various nominations, it’s so fun to read all the comments from parents/moms and do my part to share some of these extraordinary teachers.
This week on Ben’s Teacher Feature is … Mrs Jessica Yborra, Early Childhood Teacher at Ann Reid Early Childhood Center in Naperville, IL. Mrs Yborra is a special needs teacher in an inclusive classroom with special needs kids, at-risk kids and community students. The mom who nominated Mrs Yborra, says about her, “My daughter uses a wheelchair … Mrs Yborra manages the diverse needs of this class with great calm and love.”
In addition, she makes sure all students are challenged and growing in areas in which they excel. “She ensures my daughter has all the adaptations and support she needs to fully participate in all activities despite her physical challenges. She is easy to communicate with, always answering my questions and concerns quickly. She posts pictures almost every day so I can see what my daughter is doing in the classroom and often sends little notes about things to celebrate.”
She sounds like a wonderful, caring, dedicated teacher. Now in her own words:
1. How long have you been teaching? I am entering my 14th year in the field of Early Childhood Education. I have taught in a variety of classroom settings including: at-risk, self-contained and blended. I also worked as an Assistant Principal and Preschool Director for 1 year.
2. Why did you want to be a teacher? I knew in 3rd grade I wanted to be a teacher thanks to the experience I had that school year. From there, I spent most of my afternoons and summers “being a teacher” or “playing school”. As I got older, I loved to babysit and surround myself with experiences to volunteer or work with children especially the younger ones.
3. What do you love most about teaching? Or how rewarding is it? I love to learn! I have the most rewarding job because I can share my love of learning with my students each day. I have the ability to foster caring relationships with my students and their families that build a positive home-school connection. I strive to ensure all students are successful and are included. At the Early Childhood level, I work collaboratively with a team of assistants and therapists to meet the diverse needs of all students in an inclusive classroom. One of my goals is that each student I encounter and teach has a love for learning and a positive first school experience.
4. What is the hardest part about being a teacher? Most days it is time! During a typical 2.5 hour day for a preschooler, we have so many fun and engaging learning experiences that could really last all day. This is in between ensuring all students are receiving foundational skills and being met at their instructional level.
5. A little about yourself – where are you from? Are you married with children? Do you have pets? I was born and raised in Chicago until I was seven. I later grew up in Berwyn and then Lisle. I currently reside in Downers Grove with my husband and Kindergarten aged son.
6. What do you like to do for fun? I love to spend time with my family and friends, especially outdoors. I enjoy cooking and trying out new recipes. I am a big Chicago sports fan. Go Cubs, Bears and Hawks!
7. What is one unique thing about you that kids might think is funny? I do not like to sit still either!
8. Anything else you want to share or include? I have the best job in the world and am grateful for being able to share my passion with my students and families!
Thank you, Mrs. Yborra, for sharing your experiences with us - and THANK YOU for all you do in Naperville!
To submit your own favorite teacher to be featured, click here.
To learn more about the Ben’s Adventures children’s books, click here.