Jessica Monroe:
A Teacher Success Story

May 23, 2024  |  Tempe Union High School District

Jessica Monroe joyfully sat in the stands at Desert Financial Arena, celebrating the 2024 Hispanic Convocation graduating class on the Arizona State University campus in May. As the speaker read off hundreds of names, there were three that Monroe was eager to hear – those of her former students, all English Language learners and all first-generation college graduates.

“I was overwhelmed with joy to be invited to the graduation. These three girls have worked so hard and come so far in their education.”

Monroe first met the graduates when she was their language arts teacher at Shamley School during their seventh- and eighth-grade years. Monroe’s ties to her students are also shared with other Shamley staff members, including Aubrey Potter, a former social studies teacher who now works in the District’s Native American Program. Monroe attributes these long-lasting connections to the unique community Shamley provides.

“Building strong connections between middle school teachers and students is crucial as it provides a sense of belonging, support, and encouragement during a critical period of adolescent development. Shamely is a small close-knit community that I was so lucky to have as a teacher. Many students come back to visit campus frequently because of the relationships we built as a staff with our students,” Monroe said.

Those connections are a point of pride for Monroe. As she watched the graduates walk across the stage, she couldn’t help but reflect on their journey from curious middle schoolers to determined young women, overcoming challenges and striving for success.