B.A. in Psychology, University of Arizona

Jessica has been a Pre-Kindergarten teacher at St. Michael’s School since 2025. Her journey in early childhood education began in 2002 with a summer job in the TUSD P.A.C.E. Program while she was attending college. She enjoyed the experience so much that she stayed on for the next couple of years.

Wanting to make a meaningful difference in children’s lives, Jessica initially thought her degree in psychology would lead to further schooling and a career in social work. However, after working with the Southern Arizona Children’s Advocacy Center (SACAC) during her senior year of college, she realized that the emotional demands of the work were not the right fit for her and began to see teaching as the path she wanted to pursue.

Jessica took several years away from the classroom to focus on raising her own children, Carmen and Wesley—a role she considers her favorite job of all. When her youngest was ready for preschool, Jessica returned to early childhood education.

Jessica has the special privilege of welcoming St. Michael’s youngest learners as they begin their school journey. She loves creating a place where those first experiences take root and watching her students learn, grow, and flourish within the St. Michael’s community.