Celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month: Mrs. Jessica Wang - Small Groups, Big Impact

What started as a way to volunteer at her daughter’s school quickly evolved into a lifelong passion. After five years of volunteering at Burtonsville Elementary School, Jessica Wang was encouraged by the principal to apply for a paraeducator position. She passed the paraeducator exam and, 20 years later, she continues to make a difference in students’ lives. 

“My daughter was in fifth grade when I started,” she recalled. “I didn’t think I would be teaching in the United States, but every day is exciting.”

Wang earned a bachelor's degree in accounting from her home country of Taiwan—a path quite different from education—but the attention to detail  and discipline she developed transferred seamlessly into her teaching. 

“My culture helps me be prepared,” said Wang. “I take time to learn each lesson before I teach it to the students. I tell them that I did my own ‘homework’ so that I can better support them.”

Her dedication and hard work don’t go unnoticed. 

“Mrs. Wang is very nice,” said Mateo, a former student. “She is kind-hearted and I always enjoyed working with her.”

Colleagues agree.

“Mrs. Wang goes above and beyond in everything she does,” said Kristen Llanes, a fifth grade teacher. “She’ll spend hours after school preparing different strategies for students.”

“She is a fabulous support staff member,” added Jennifer Keplinger, a first grade teacher. “Mrs. Wang is very proactive and is always one step ahead with ideas.” 

Currently, Wang supports first and second grade students with a focus on math. Each day, she meets with small groups of six students, tailoring her lessons to make learning effective and fun. From using real money and setting up “shopping trips” to having students focus by counting Hershey’s Kisses and then getting them as a reward on Fridays, Mrs. Wang’s teaching and engagement techniques are tailored to each student’s needs. 

“When I taught reading, I used the student's teacher’s name or a friend’s name to help students understand letters and sounds,” she said. She’s also had an after-school homework club to provide students with extra support. 

“Mrs. Wang is exceptional and is able to support individual students with diverse needs,” said Stephanie Williams, a fifth grade teacher. “She consistently demonstrates patience and understanding. As a result, students' grades and self-confidence have improved. Mrs. Wang ensures everyone feels comfortable, celebrated and accepted.”

Celebration is a hallmark of her teaching philosophy. When students “graduate” from her small group, Wang makes a big deal out of it—complete with parties and homemade baked goods.

“I am so happy when I can see my group kids improve,” she added. “We have a party to celebrate them.”

Her connection with students extends far beyond the classroom. Former students now in college still talk about her impact. Students are excited when they see her on the bike trail in D.C. She even crocheted a student’s favorite book character. Wang has formed lasting bonds that speak to her warmth and dedication.

“She has great relationships and bonds with the students,” said Keplinger. “She knows the families, she lives in the community, she sees the families out and about. She’s the heart and soul of Burtonsville.” 

As Montgomery County Public Schools honors Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we are proud to share Jessica Wang’s story—a story of preparedness, perseverance and lasting impact on her school, her students and her community.