Share Your Story

Jessica’s Experience 🏫
This is my first year at North Junior High. Last year, I was a long-term substitute at West Junior High. Prior to education, I worked in industry — I own a graphic design business and served as Director of Project and Process Management for a holding company overseeing multiple companies. My work spanned tech, manufacturing, utilities, and service industries like HVAC. Through process management, I also trained and taught adult teams, which ultimately led me into education.

Jessica’s Approach 🍎
Honestly, this looks a little different every day! I bring computer science to life by connecting it to real experiences. I involve students in opportunities like TechGirlz and SheTech, bring in industry speakers, and participate in STEM/STEAM nights.

In the classroom, I use Skill Struck lessons as a foundation and build hands-on projects around them. I also keep a maker-style space available — students who finish early can explore micro:bits, littleBits, Arduino Circuit Playgrounds, drones, and LEGO robotics. I want students to play, fail, try again, and ultimately learn through the process.

I also strongly believe computer science is for all students — not just the ones who find it easy right away. Some of my most meaningful moments come from students who didn’t initially see themselves in tech, including those who need additional support, realizing they can succeed. Struggle is part of the process, and every student deserves the opportunity to work through it and grow.

Jessica’s Skill Struck Experience 🚀
I love Skill Struck — having everything in one place is a game changer. Many teachers have to piece together multiple platforms, but Skill Struck streamlines that.

More than anything though, it’s the people. If I have a question, I hear back the same day. If I have an idea, I get support building it out. That level of partnership makes a huge difference in what I can offer my students.

Jessica’s Impact ✨
One of the biggest moments for me this year was seeing how many students asked to join my year-long classes at semester. For my advanced class, I initially hesitated — but the students who asked were so motivated that one even spent part of winter break catching up on first-semester content.

Once that student joined, I watched another student — who typically just went through the motions — become more engaged because he wanted to help him succeed.

I also had a student tell me she “hated” that I don’t immediately give answers when they’re stuck. But now, in second semester, she told me she loves it — because she’s learned how to think and problem-solve. That shift is everything.

I intentionally let students struggle a bit. I guide them, ask questions, and have them try again before stepping in. Watching them build confidence through that process is one of my favorite parts of teaching.

About Jessica and her Passion 💻🎨
I’m passionate about making computer science accessible, creative, and human. I recently had the opportunity to present at IETA on accessibility and innovation in the classroom, and I helped found the Idaho Google Educator Group. While I manage much of the GEG site, I’m especially passionate about my specific corner of the page where I share insights on all the different edtech tools I love and test—moving beyond just Google to help teachers find the best resources for their classrooms. I love collaborating with other educators and working to normalize innovation as part of everyday teaching — not just something extra.

Outside of school, I’m a mom to an awesome 14 year old human and a proud dog mom. I love the outdoors — you’ll usually find me camping or in the mountains during the summer — and I’m always creating something. Art is a daily part of my life.

Ambassador Spotlight 🔦

Jessica Johnson

Join the Gallery!

Doing something incredible with CS or AI? We want to celebrate you!