In just a few years with Livingston ESA, Jessica Schultz has made a lasting impact on both her learners and her colleagues through her creativity, compassion, and unwavering belief in every learner's potential.

Working with some of the agency's most highly impacted learners requires flexibility, patience, and the ability to adapt to each learner's unique strengths and needs. Jessica embraces that challenge every day, creating an environment where every learner is valued, encouraged, and empowered to grow.

Jessica is intentional about getting to know each learner as an individual. She takes the time to understand their interests, personalities, and communication styles, then thoughtfully incorporates those interests into classroom activities and lessons. By making learning personal and meaningful, she creates opportunities that encourage engagement, independence, and success.

"Jessica is intentional and driven in all that she does," a colleague shared. "Deeply committed to learner success, she collaborates seamlessly with teachers and staff to ensure every learner thrives."

Jessica believes her learners come to school to learn—not simply to receive care. She intentionally creates opportunities for independence, communication, and decision-making throughout the school day, always looking for ways to help learners build confidence and participate as fully as possible.

One learner in Jessica's classroom loves to socialize but is nonverbal, making it difficult to communicate with people who don't know her well. Each morning, Jessica gives her the important job of checking the classroom mail at the reception desk. Before heading down the hallway, Jessica presents several conversation starters, allowing the learner to choose what she would like to say that day. She then writes the chosen message down so it can be shared with the reception staff.

The result is much more than a daily task. It gives the learner a sense of purpose, independence, and the opportunity to build meaningful relationships throughout the building. Watching the excitement on her face each morning is a powerful reminder that every learner deserves opportunities to connect, communicate, and be heard.

"Jessica brings positive energy into the classroom every day. She is always willing to lend a hand, helps her learners feel supported, and motivates them to do their best," another colleague shared. "She always knows how to remain calm and patient during challenging situations, encouraging both staff and learners to work their hardest. Her dedication and enthusiasm make a lasting impact on everyone she works with."

Jessica's commitment extends beyond the classroom walls. She organizes community outings that help learners build confidence in new environments while fostering understanding and inclusion throughout the community. She is constantly looking for new ways to connect classroom learning to real-life experiences, helping learners develop skills they can carry with them long after they leave her classroom.

"Jessica is an exceptional teacher who consistently goes above and beyond for her learners," a colleague shared. "She creates a supportive, inclusive, and encouraging learning environment where every learner feels valued and capable of succeeding."

Her expertise, particularly in supporting learners with autism and other complex disabilities, allows her to develop individualized strategies that help each learner reach their full potential.

"Her deep understanding of autism and other complex disabilities enables her to masterfully design and implement highly effective strategies and supports," a colleague shared. "She has built trust and respect with all staff and is a true asset to the agency."

Jessica's positive influence extends beyond the learners in her classroom. She is always willing to collaborate, share ideas, and support her colleagues whenever needed.

"Jessica also is great at teamwork and shares brilliant ideas with all of her coworkers," one colleague said. "She's someone you can always count on to jump in during any situation. Having Jessica on our team makes a difference and helps everyone succeed."

If you spend any time in Jessica's classroom, it quickly becomes clear how deeply she cares about her learners. She celebrates every success, no matter how small they may seem, and never seeks recognition for herself. Instead, she is excited to share the accomplishments of her learners and the collective work of her team.

That commitment was especially evident during this year's graduation ceremony. One of Jessica's learners was uncomfortable receiving his Certificate of Completion in front of a large crowd. Rather than asking him to push through an overwhelming moment, Jessica met him where he was. She quietly presented his certificate from a space where he felt safe and comfortable, ensuring he could celebrate this important milestone in a way that honored his individual needs.

Moments like these reflect Jessica's belief that every learner deserves to be celebrated—not by fitting into a predetermined mold, but by being supported in ways that allow them to succeed.

"Jessica's ability to build meaningful relationships with her learners, families, and colleagues makes her an invaluable member of our team," a colleague shared. "She inspires confidence, celebrates every achievement, and advocates for her learners with genuine care and professionalism. It is a privilege to work alongside her, and the positive impact she has on her learners' lives is truly remarkable."

Through her compassion, creativity, and unwavering dedication, Jessica has made a meaningful difference in the lives of her learners while embodying Livingston ESA's commitment to empowering every learner.

Livingston ESA is proud to honor Jessica Schultz for her excellence, compassion, and dedication during the month of July. We are grateful for the extraordinary care, leadership, and encouragement she provides to our learners, families, and staff every day.