Jessica Menard

Subject: Language Arts / Math & Problem Solving / Public Speaking

What will my child walk away with? Greater confidence communicating in any room, with any audience. My background in developmental psychology and cognitive behavioral change means I understand what students need to learn, what gets in the way of learning it, and how to address both. Students will strengthen core language arts, active listening, and articulation skills while building on vocabulary and grammar. They will also develop analytical reading of texts and situations to support stronger oral and written arguments. 

What can families expect? A teacher known for bold, effective, and genuinely engaging instruction. I have delivered training across settings from elementary classrooms to corporate boardrooms, and I bring that range of experience to how I connect with students of different ages, backgrounds, and comfort levels. Advanced instruction in language arts through the psychology of communication and an environment rich in social and emotional support. 

What does class actually feel like? Energetic, inclusive, and occasionally funny. I believe rigor and humor are not opposites, and that students who are laughing are often also learning. I push students meaningfully while keeping the environment psychologically safe enough to take real risks. Classes are lively and workshop-like where students practice speaking, listening, and writing skills in a supportive setting. 

How do you challenge a curious mind? I give students communication problems that require genuine thought, not just practiced delivery. A polished performance isn’t the goal. It is the ability to think clearly under pressure, use perspective-taking skills, and express that thinking convincingly to a real audience. Students tackle complex tasks that demand critical thinking, perspective-taking, and idea structuring. They learn to analyze and synthesize information and approaches that help them communicate it convincingly in spoken and written forms. 

Credentials and Experience M.S. in Developmental Psychology. Deep expertise in education, developmental psychology, cognitive behavioral change, and clinical mental health counseling. Extensive experience delivering impactful training and counseling across diverse settings. Strong record of driving organizational change through innovative, equity-centered approaches.