Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Bell’Aver
Hi Jessica, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Seven years ago, I moved to Utah after being accepted in a teaching position in the Dual Language Immersion program at Bluffdale Elementary. My teaching career began in Brazil immediately after I obtained my degree, and since then, teaching has been my sole profession.
I hold a Master’s degree in Teaching with a focus on Professional Development for in-service teachers. In 2016, as part of my Master’s final project, I launched a website called “Teachers Thinking Together.” This platform was designed to connect teachers across the state of Paraná, Brazil, allowing them to share experiences, materials, and more.
I have always enjoyed exchanging teaching practices and learning from other educators. After a few years in Utah, I’ve expanded my reach by creating an Instagram account under my name – and the title “Teachers Thinking Together.” Through this platform, I have connected with teachers from the United States, Brazil, Canada and Europe!
Together, we explore educational books and articles, exchange classroom activity ideas, and share valuable resources. It has been incredibly rewarding and uplifting to continue teaching my first graders while also supporting other teachers in their professional journeys!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Moving abroad certainly presents a unique set of challenges. It’s a journey that involves immense learning, and sometimes it feels like you’re starting life from zero. The experience can be overwhelming and at times discouraging. Adapting to a new culture, work environment, and its demands is no easy feat, and the most difficult aspect for me has been being away from family. This has undoubtedly been the toughest part of my journey.
However, I have been fortunate to meet incredible people here in Utah! They have been instrumental in helping my husband and I navigate the complexities of our first year, and we are incredibly grateful for their support and kindness over the past years!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am passionate about my teaching career and thrive on discovering new methods to enhance my practices. Supporting fellow educators in their professional growth also brings immense joy to my life. Maintaining strong relationships and open communication with the parents of my students is a priority, as I view them as essential partners in fostering their children’s success at school.
In my professional journey, I am particularly drawn to exploring and discussing topics such as student engagement, classroom management and positive reinforcement. I eagerly embrace any opportunity to dive deeper into these areas or share insights on them.
We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
I am a firm believer in the power of taking risks and stepping out of our comfort zone. Leaving my position as a pedagogical coordinator in Brazil to embark on a new journey in Utah was a significant risk, yet it was a leap I knew I needed to take to fulfill my lifelong dream of experiencing life abroad. My desire to escape my bubble and explore the world, learning about diverse educational systems and their inner workings, was compelling!
Had I not taken the bold step of accepting this job and relocating to another country with my husband, I would have constantly wondered about the possibilities I missed. This adventure of living and teaching in Utah has been incredibly enriching and rewarding from the very first year. Should the day come when I need to return to Brazil, I would do so with contentment, knowing that the wealth of knowledge and experiences I’ve gained here has been truly invaluable!
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