Jessica Eachus (center) poses with her award, colleagues and students.
Each month, the community nominates their favorite teachers and educators from the ×îÐÂÐÓ°ÉÔ´´ region to be the ×îÐÂÐÓ°ÉÔ´´ Post-Dispatch Teacher of the Month. February’s winner is Jessica Eachus, a high school special education teacher in the Belleville Area Special Services Cooperative (BASSC) Autism Program. Mrs. Eachus received a $250 gift card courtesy of .
Describe your teaching experience.
I have worked at BASSC for nine years and have had the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally during that time. I spent six years in the middle school program, where I focused on building foundational academic, social and functional skills with my students.
I am currently in my third year teaching in the high school program, where the focus shifts more toward transition planning, vocational skills and greater independence. Moving to the high school level has allowed me to expand my work in community-based instruction and life skills development. Having experience in both programs has given me a well-rounded perspective on our students’ growth over time and has strengthened my ability to support them as they prepare for adulthood.
What is the favorite part of your classes?
One of my favorite aspects of teaching is working with students on functional life skills. I value the opportunity to provide hands-on learning experiences in the community like grocery shopping, ordering meals and participating in recycling initiatives, which help promote independence and real-world application. I deeply value the opportunity to witness my students’ growth and development each year, and I have been fortunate to continue working with many of the same students as they transition to high school, allowing me to see their maturity, confidence and independence increase over time.
What are your goals for your students?
My students transition to our Progression and Advancement of Life Skills (PALS) program after high school. My goal is to prepare them with the skills and confidence needed to pursue employment opportunities and live as independently as possible. I hope they leave my classroom with greater self-confidence, practical life skills and a strong sense of self-advocacy.
I work hard to create a structured but supportive environment where students feel comfortable, confident, and willing to try new things. I use hands-on activities and positive reinforcement to keep students engaged while helping them build independence and self-advocacy skills as they work toward their individual goals.
How do you feel about being honored as Teacher of the Month?
I am truly honored and grateful for this recognition. I work alongside an incredible team whose dedication and collaboration make everything we do possible. This recognition reflects not only my work, but the collective effort and commitment of our entire team to support our students.
To nominate a teacher of the month, visit .
