This year, the Ship’s Log will be running a brief feature on all new teachers and educational staff.  We have tried to pare down the information about the staff member and are including all the pertinent information about that staff member that he/she has shared with us.

*Name:  Jessica Goodman

*Subject Taught:  Special Education-Life Skills Program

*Grades Taught:  9-12+

*College Alma Mater(s): Rowan University

1. What is your background and experience in education prior to coming to CHS?

Before teaching at Cinnaminson High School, I was a member of the Child Study Team and worked as a Learning Disabilities Teacher Consultant. Prior to becoming a learning consultant, I taught a self-contained multiple disabilities life skills-based class at Westampton Middle School for five years.

2. What made you come to CHS?

Once becoming a learning consultant, I soon realized I missed being in the classroom and teaching. Our life skill program was growing at the high school and thankfully there was a need for a special education teacher for our life skills program.

3. What do you have to offer to the students of CHS?

Through my various teaching positions, I have had the pleasure working with students who have special needs. As a teacher, I believe I offer a genuine concern for the whole student by developing and understanding their skills, abilities and needs.

4. What drove you to become a teacher?

As a child, I always dreamed about becoming a teacher. I often played school with my brother and cousins, and, of course, insisted on being the teacher every time. Since I was so passionate about education at a young age, my parents turned our playroom into a classroom. I had real desks, chalkboards, teaching supplies, bulletin boards and even students! I was influenced to become a special educator from my aunt. She taught special education for thirty years and I often spent a lot of my time as a child in her classroom. I saw how rewarding teaching students with special needs was and I am so excited to be back in the classroom teaching students with special needs.

5. Outside of teaching what are your interests?

I enjoy spending time with my husband and our dog Sofie, as well as my family and friends. I enjoy going to the beach in the summer, being active, traveling, baking, everything fall, and restoring/distressing furniture.