Jessica Black teaches first grade at Tyrone Area Elementary School. Black graduated from Penn State in 2000 and has been teaching at Tyrone for 21 years. According to her colleagues at the elementary school, Mrs. Black has a very uplifting personality and brightens any room she enters. She is very enthusiastic and kind-hearted. Thank you Mrs. Black for all your hard work and dedication to the Tyrone Area School District.

Eagle Eye: Why did you become a teacher?

Jessica Black: I remember reading a story to a group of kids at a daycare and thinking this is what I want to do. The students were so engaged in the story and couldn’t wait to hear more. I decided to become a teacher because I could work with kids and help them to learn new skills. I also wanted to instill in my students a love of learning.

EE: Why did you choose the subject/grade you teach?

JB: I chose first grade because the students learn so much during the year. It is so rewarding to see the progress that the students make throughout the year and know that I helped them get there.

EE: What’s your favorite thing about teaching at Tyrone?

JB: The first grade team of teachers, and paras, that I work with are awesome. I also really enjoy that Tyrone is a small community. I enjoy seeing students that I taught previously in the halls at school or in the community. It is always nice to have a former student say hi.

EE: What are some of your favorite hobbies and interests?

JB: Some of my hobbies are baking, photography, and spending time with my family – especially at the lake.

EE: What is some good advice you’ve been given as a teacher?

JB: The best advice I’ve been given as a teacher is to get to know your students. Getting to know your students helps you make connections with them and get to know their interests. As a teacher, I can then use that information when I teach.

EE: What’s the hardest part of teaching and why?

JB: The hardest part of teaching is trying to help all students be successful. I feel very strongly that all students can be successful and work very hard to ensure that happens. Students learn differently and at a different rate so it can sometimes be challenging.

EE: What are some jobs held before you got into teaching?

JB: Before I came to Tyrone, I worked at several daycares and Head Start.

EE: What is something that students might be surprised to find out about you?

JB: I grew up on a dairy farm and I am the oldest of five kids.

EE: What’s your favorite movie?

JB: I like watching Hallmark movies with my daughters.

EE: What is your spirit animal? Why?

JB: I have never really thought about having a spirit animal. If I had to choose, I would say a dog because they are loyal, friendly, and eager to help.