Jessica holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration (with dual concentrations in International & Marketing Management), a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and Master of Arts in Education from Chapman University, as well as Gifted and Talented Certifications from UC San Diego.
With incredible mentorship, she learned the art of design and differentiation, with a lens on giftedness in poverty. After spending six years as a lead teacher in the K-6 setting, Jessica taught mathematics at Mirman School for the Highly Gifted (Pre-Algebra through Pre-Calculus) for five years. During this time she presented at state math conferences, was a Math Counts competition coach, and specialized in teaching leadership and entrepreneurship.
Next, she returned to the elementary grades to lead New Roads Lower School K-5 as their Principal. As an administrator, she was able to design learning environments that set students and teachers up for ongoing success. Her curriculum is still in place today.
Beginning in 2019, Jessica became the Director of Curriculum and Instruction (K-8) at High Point Academy in Pasadena. As the direct supervisor to over forty-five faculty, she evaluated teachers, coached new teachers through induction, led faculty and curriculum meetings, designed the academic program during Covid, educated parents, and most importantly, supported teachers in achieving their professional goals.
Now retired from the formal school system, Jessica Butterfield offers a variety of educational services in Ventura County.
All students can learn and deserve the opportunity for someone to teach to their strengths and interests. Differentiating instruction for the individual ranges in both level of difficulty (depth and complexity) as well as scope (remediated to accelerated content). It is my job to ignite the desire to grow in ALL students!
I tailor all curriculum design to parental choice and student need. Using the Backwards Design Model (Wiggins and McTigue), I carefully design lessons based on the overarching goals and learning transfer.
I establish a learning environment where students feel safe and are willing to take risks. Mistakes are viewed as learning opportunities and opportunities for new growth! Positivity and building confidence are the cornerstones to my relationships with students.
Professional Mentors
At the Learning & the Brain Conference with International Education guru, John Hattie
With mentor and friend National Writing Author, Ralph Fletcher
Dr. David Daniel (Top Educational Researcher)
Dr. Doug Fisher (Co-Author of Visible Learning)