Jessica Bayer

Background

About Jessica Bayer

Education has been my passion since I was five years old, demanding that my parents put a chalkboard in my room so I could play teacher with my sister and our friends. Over the years, I fell more in love with the idea of being a teacher. I tutored classmates, helped out with younger students during breaks and recess, and became certain that I would be the next Ms. Frizzle (magic schoolbus, anyone?). As I got older, I was obsessed with the wisdom,(and sweater vests) of another great TV teacher, Mr. Feeny from Boy Meets World (90's kids know!). Through his stoic advice and tough but fair approach, I learned invaluable lessons about education. The most important one, that I carry with me every day, is being an educator doesn't mean only one thing. Mr. Feeny was a teacher, a principal, a university professor, a neighbour and a friend, but within each role, he was an educator, mentor, protector and learner. I have come to find out that education opens seemingly limitless pathways for those who are brave enough to explore. I pursued teaching steadfastly and quickly realized that there were other ways to be an educator. I noticed that there were some areas of education which really needed some work. So instead of asking myself how I can be a teacher, I started to ask what can I do to make a change in education. How can I help other people chase their dream the way that I have? My goal now is simply to create better opportunities for learners. To support the brave folks that are jumping into education with both feet and might need a little help sometimes. I believe that advocacy has a time and place, but empowerment is my true goal. This takes the shape of leadership, EDISJ, accessibility, health and wellness and so much more! Education is our doorway to better things and I want to encourage and engage with anyone who believes in that the way I do. Working with students, teachers, and all sorts of learners brings me immense joy. Their passion for their work, despite life's hurdles, is something that I understand wholeheartedly. I aim to make sure they don't lose that desire to learn, grow, and make a positive impact in whichever field they choose, and pursue it boldly, fiercely, and with support.