Jessica Guzman is the new principal at Newton Elementary. Her husband, Adrian, works in the tech department at the high school and is new to the District as well. Their three children will begin at Newton Elementary this year.
Can you tell people who might not know you a little about yourself?
My name is Jessica Guzman and this is my first year as principal at Newton Elementary. Prior to joining the JCCU #1 district, I was principal at North Clay Elementary & Jr. High in Louisville, IL. Before stepping into administration, I taught fourth grade and North Clay Elementary and third grade at Richland County Elementary School.
Family?
My husband Adrian and I have three boys: Aden (age 8), Jacob (age 7) and Shen (age 6). We love to travel and make memories together!
Education?
I am a graduate of Eastern Illinois University! I earned both my B.S. in Elementary Education and my M.S. in Educational Leadership from EIU!
What made you decide to go into education?
I have a passion for education and for helping raise and develop the next generation of leaders. At the elementary level we strive to build the educational foundation of students while instilling a love for learning and school community.
What are some of the greatest strengths you feel our school District has?
Some of the greatest strengths I have seen so far are the kind and hard working staff, the wonderful students and families, and the supportive and welcoming community.
How have educational priorities changed since you began teaching?
One of the shifts I have seen in educational priorities since I began teaching is the shift from only focusing on educating the child from an academic standpoint to now focusing on educating the whole child which includes social-emotional education and awareness.
What do you feel are the most important qualities of an educator and why?
Most importantly, it’s about relationships. Educators have to love students and have a heart to work with them. When we care about students and get to know them, we can help them achieve far greater things!
Students are our next generation of leaders and they are most certainly worth our time and investment!
