My name is Jessica Thimm and I am originally from Novi, Michigan.  I currently work as a fifth grade teacher in Alexandria, Virginia.  I come from a very small family; I only have one brother and two cousins.  We spend a lot of time traveling, watching movies, and shopping!  My brother and I love to do adrenaline filled activities like riding roller coasters and skydiving!  During the summer, when I am not teaching, I am a group leader for 43 girls at Camp Chen-A-Wanda!  I have had the same girls for the past six years and I love being able to have the opportunity to help my girls grow and develop into young women.

 

I graduated from Michigan State University in 2011 with a Bachelor of the Arts degree in Elementary Education with an integrated science endorsement.  After graduation, I participated in my teaching internship at Maple Elementary School; after which, I earned my teaching certificate in 2012.  I am currently finishing my Master of Arts and Education with a literacy concentration through Michigan State University.

 

After receiving my teaching certificate, I accepted a position with Fairfax County Public Schools right by Washington D.C.  I became a fifth grade teacher at Hayfield Elementary School where I have been for the past four years!  Teaching fifth grade is exciting and challenging!  I have developed my teaching each year through my classroom and professional experiences.  Teaching near Washington D.C. has offered me a diverse teaching experience in dealing with a wide range of students. 

 

In my classroom, I always want students to feel heard and that their opinions matters.  I like to build my classroom community into a positive, productive environment.  I like to focus on “put-ups” instead of “put-downs”.  Technology is incorporated into my classroom as much as possible.  As I continue on in my teaching, my goal is to start taking on a leadership role in my school.