Jessica Rice
Boulder Creek
Summary
Dedicated elementary educator with 10+ years of experience in multi-age, inquiry-based classrooms and inclusive school communities. Expertise in English Language Development (ELD), differentiated instruction, MTSS/RTI, PBIS, and project-based learning. Bilingual in Spanish and deeply committed to equity, environmental stewardship, and whole-child development. Known for building strong family partnerships, fostering belonging, and delivering data-informed instruction that supports diverse learners in small-school settings.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
Work History
K/1 and 2/3 Teacher
Discovery Charter School
San Jose, CA
01.2023 - Current
- Teach multi-age classrooms serving neurodivergent and diverse learners in a developmental, whole-child model
- Design interdisciplinary, project-based and place-based curriculum responsive to students’ readiness levels and interests
- Implement RTI strategies and differentiated instruction to support academic and social-emotional growth
- Foster strong family engagement within a parent-participation structure
- Collaborate closely with staff to provide inclusive STEAM learning experiences
- Support equitable outcomes in a culturally and economically diverse community
1st Grade Teacher
Ida Jew Elementary School
San Jose, CA
01.2021 - 01.2023
- Delivered designated and integrated ELD instruction across proficiency levels
- Implemented SDAIE strategies to ensure multilingual learners access grade-level curriculum
- Led MTSS processes using FAST data to provide targeted Tier 2 and Tier 3 interventions
- Differentiated instruction for diverse learners, including students with IEPs, through co-teaching
- Built culturally responsive classroom environments that leveraged students’ identities and strengths
- Collaborated in PLCs to analyze student data and refine instructional practices
- Strengthened bilingual family partnerships through accessible communication
1st & 2nd Grade Teacher
Lagunita Elementary School
01.2016 - 01.2018
- Taught multi-age classroom using NGSS-aligned, science-based thematic instruction
- Prepared students for CAASPP through ongoing formative assessment and targeted support
- Integrated STEAM learning using National Geographic curriculum and FOSS science kits
- Differentiated mathematics instruction using multiple research-based programs
- Coached colleagues on project-based learning and facilitated community education partnerships
- Promoted social-emotional development using cooperative learning and SEL frameworks
Second Grade Teacher
Linscott Charter School
Watsonville, CA
01.2008 - 01.2018
- Delivered inquiry-based, project-based instruction in a parent-participation charter model for 10 years
- Designed integrated thematic units across literacy, science, social studies, and the arts
- Implemented GLAD and SIPP strategies to support English Learners and academic language growth
- Cultivated strong school-home partnerships through ongoing communication and volunteer coordination
- Used visual and performing arts to increase engagement and motivation
- Mentored student teachers and collaborated on curriculum development
- Recipient, Teacher of Excellence Award (City of Watsonville, 2010)
Education
Master of Education - Social Justice & Equity
University of California, Santa Cruz
Bachelor of Arts - Liberal Studies, Environmental Science
California State University, Monterey Bay
Skills
- English Language Development (ELD), Differentiated and Inclusive Instruction, MTSS/RTI Intervention, Multi-age Classroom Teaching, Project and Place Based Learning, NGSS and STEAM Integration, Social-Emotional Learning (SEL), Culturally Responsive Teaching, Data Driven Instruction, Special Education Collaboration, Family and Community Engagement, Bilingual Communication (Spanish)
- Classroom management
- Relationship building
- Lesson planning
TRAINING AND ACCOLADES
- I attended the MBA workshop in 2017 and in 2008.
- Awarded Teacher of Excellence by the Mayor of Watsonville in 2010.
- Attended multiple workshops at RAFT for STEAM instruction at multiple grade levels.
- Attended Visual Arts workshops at Palace Arts in Capitola, whilst teaching at Linscott Charter School and Lagunita Elementary School.
Languages
Spanish
Professional Working
Timeline
K/1 and 2/3 Teacher
Discovery Charter School
01.2023 - Current
1st Grade Teacher
Ida Jew Elementary School
01.2021 - 01.2023
1st & 2nd Grade Teacher
Lagunita Elementary School
01.2016 - 01.2018
Second Grade Teacher
Linscott Charter School
01.2008 - 01.2018
Bachelor of Arts - Liberal Studies, Environmental Science
California State University, Monterey Bay
Master of Education - Social Justice & Equity
University of California, Santa Cruz