Jessica Anne Samara

I started my teaching career as a preschool teacher for two years while attending classes at Riverside Community College. I then worked as a special education classroom aide for many years while attaining a Master's in Education from California Baptist University with a dual credential in general and special education. This is my 9th year in total teaching and 4th year at RJA. This includes one year at New Vision Middle School and my 3rd year at iEmpire Academy. 

 

My passions outside of work include spending time with my family, friends, and my dog Copper. I have 27-year-old twins, and my youngest is 22. My oldest son has been married for 2 years. I enjoy walking my dog, riding my electric bike, and camping. My faith in Jesus Christ is the foundation of my life and I love attending church and the several volunteer opportunities I have to serve. 

 

My students bring me much joy, especially seeing them in class or in the hallways. Seeing their smiles and hearing their laughter is the highlight of my day. When we have those moments when learning during a fun activity brings an ah, ha moment, it is an overwhelming experience. I will never forget these moments. There have also been times of sadness and sharing personal experiences and tears is difficult, but it helps to build strong bonds. Working at iEmpire and my fellow teachers and staff make my job even more enjoyable. I look forward to being on campus and I love my job, even in the difficult moments. Having a strong relationship with the people I am blessed to work with makes even the most difficult times manageable. I appreciate how RJA lays out the year ahead of time, so we all know what to expect with training and personal development days. I look forward to many more years with RJA and my awesome staff and students.