Jessica’s Commitment: How her passion for teaching and Memphis shines bright and changes lives

Meet jessica williams,
Class of 2013

Jessica Williams, an 8th-grade math teacher and instructional coach at Collierville Middle School, has spent the past decade empowering students and building meaningful relationships in her classroom. Twice honored as Teacher of the Year, she credits the recognition with inspiring her to pursue leadership roles, including a second master’s degree in educational leadership. Deeply connected to Memphis and guided by her faith, Jessica celebrates the values instilled by MTR, which continue to shape her impactful career.

Jessica Williams (MTR Class of 2013) has called Memphis home since she was 8 years old, and her love for the city runs deep. From its character to its top-tier bike-riding community, Memphis inspires her every day.

For the past decade, Jessica has been shaping young minds as an 8th-grade math teacher and, more recently, as a math instructional coach at Collierville Middle School. Her classroom is a space where students not only learn but also feel seen and valued—a reflection of Jessica’s commitment to building relationships.

Jessica’s dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed. She has been honored with the prestigious Teacher of the Year award—twice, in two different local districts. Winning the award was a pivotal moment in her career, inspiring her to pursue a second Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership.

Reflecting on the honor, Jessica shared, “Being recognized for your hard work in the classroom is monumental.

Teachers do so much; there should be a red carpet event at the end of every school year to celebrate their efforts!”

Jessica credits MTR with giving her a strong foundation early in her career. “MTR taught me that building relationships is everything,” she shared. Even after 11 years of being connected to MTR, Jessica finds the organization’s mission to be as inspiring as ever. “Christ is the driving force of MTR,” she said. “That is what won me over to apply, and it continues to be a piece of everything they do.”

Jessica’s passion for teaching and leading is matched by her commitment to Memphis. Her story is a reminder of the incredible impact teachers have in shaping both students and communities.

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