Hello, world!
My name is Jess Lambert, though my students call me Ms. Lambert.
Finding my true passion was a journey that took time and exploration. Initially, I was drawn to the idea of becoming a nurse. The thought of helping others in a medical capacity seemed like a natural fit. However, that dream shifted abruptly during an experience accompanying my father to an outpatient surgery. Watching three different nurses struggle repeatedly to correctly insert an IV left me questioning whether this path was truly for me.
At that point, I had already begun working as a caregiver, and soon after, I transitioned into a role as a direct support professional for individuals with developmental disabilities. It was in this role that I discovered a profound sense of fulfillment. I spent many years in this profession, drawn by the deep connections I made with the people I supported and the joy of helping them navigate their world. The work was incredibly rewarding, but despite my passion, the financial realities of the job forced me to seek out a career that could provide a more stable and sustainable income.
This need for financial stability led me to a role as an office manager, where I built a diverse set of skills that continue to serve me well today. As an office manager, I honed my abilities in organization, time management, and communication—all crucial skills that are directly transferable to the classroom. I learned how to efficiently manage multiple tasks, coordinate schedules, and ensure that everything ran smoothly, often under tight deadlines. These skills enhanced my ability to keep a classroom organized, meet important educational deadlines, and maintain clear and effective communication with parents, colleagues, and administration.
In addition to organizational skills, my time as an office manager taught me the importance of teamwork and leadership. I was responsible for coordinating a team, resolving conflicts, and ensuring that everyone was working together towards common goals. This experience has been invaluable in managing a classroom environment where collaboration and clear communication are essential for success. Whether it’s leading a team of support staff or fostering a cooperative spirit among my students, the leadership skills I developed as an office manager are now integral to my role as a special education teacher.
Growing up, my father was blind, and while I didn’t realize it at the time, living with him provided me with invaluable insights into the challenges and intricacies of life with a disability. I learned how to approach life from a perspective of adaptability and understanding, skills that would later become central to my career. Combining the knowledge and empathy gained from my childhood experiences with the practical skills I developed as a direct support professional and office manager, I now possess a unique, well-rounded ability to support and nurture my students in ways that are both compassionate and effective.
In my classroom, I strive to see each student for who they truly are, beyond just their challenges. I have a knack for identifying their strengths, even when they might not see them themselves. This ability allows me to tailor my instruction to each individual, ensuring that their learning experience is not just effective but also empowering. By building on their inherent strengths, I help my students gain confidence in their abilities, fostering a mindset of growth and possibility. After all, I firmly believe that students who see themselves as capable learners are far more likely to achieve their full potential.
When I finally found my way into Special Education, everything clicked. I had discovered my true calling. Special Education allows me to combine my love for teaching with my passion for making a difference in the lives of others. I take great joy in building deep, meaningful relationships with my students, getting to know what excites and motivates them, and creating lessons that are not only educational but also deeply relevant to their lives. My approach is rooted in the belief that education should be both engaging and personal. Whether it’s incorporating a student’s favorite hobby into a math lesson or designing a project around something they are passionate about, I strive to make learning a positive and enriching experience.
Watching my students grow—academically, socially, and emotionally—is the greatest reward of all. There’s nothing quite like the moment when a student who once struggled begins to believe in themselves and their abilities. Those moments of growth and self-discovery are what make my heart truly happy and remind me every day why I chose this path.
Outside of the classroom, I’m always seeking ways to expand my knowledge and skills, whether through professional development, collaboration with colleagues, or simply learning from my students themselves. Each day brings new challenges and opportunities, and I’m excited to continue this journey, making a lasting impact on the lives of the students I am privileged to teach.