Jessica Fennell – Russell Elementary
Jessica Russell is the 2018-2019 Teacher of the Year for Russell Elementary School.
She was born and raised in Dublin, Georgia and earned her bachelor’s degree and became dual certified in early childhood and special education at Middle Georgia State University. Her first job was at Russell Elementary and she is currently in her seventh year of teaching. During her spare time, she enjoys fishing, playing golf and softball.
Why teaching/What brought you into
this field?
“I have always loved kids. When I was in high school my first job was babysitting for a couple families. It was then [that] I noticed I was good with kids and after hearing the feedback from parents, I knew I was going to be a teacher.”
Any inspiration from past teachers?
“My third grade teacher influenced me a lot. She was just one of those people who was always smiling and very positive. I felt like I was at home with her. And you could tell she wasn’t there just for an 8-4 job, she was invested. I also had a middle school teacher who was just like my third grader teacher. So that’s what also drew me to teaching and I want my students to feel that same way with me.”
What do you enjoy most about teaching?
“I truly do love and enjoy most [of] my relationships with the students. What is really heart warming to me as well [is] when my older students, who are now in middle school, come back to visit with me. I love hearing about their success. They influence and shape me everyday.”
What is the most
challenging part of teaching?
“To me the most challenging part is the things I can’t control. Not having enough time and not knowing what goes on when they’re not in my classroom is tough.”
Advice to students
“I tell my kids everyday to not ever give up on their dreams. If you want something then go for it. Dare to be different and it’s ok to be different. You’re in control of your future.”
Advice to parents
“Love, support and encourage your child everyday. Be someone they can look up to. Open communication is key.”
Before you go...
Thanks for reading The Houston Home Journal — we hope this article added to your day.
For over 150 years, Houston Home Journal has been the newspaper of record for Perry, Warner Robins and Centerville. We're excited to expand our online news coverage, while maintaining our twice-weekly print newspaper.
If you like what you see, please consider becoming a member of The Houston Home Journal. We're all in this together, working for a better Warner Robins, Perry and Centerville, and we appreciate and need your support.
Please join the readers like you who help make community journalism possible by joining The Houston Home Journal. Thank you.
- Brieanna Smith, Houston Home Journal managing editor
Paid Posts
Related Articles
The Westfield School Calendar 2025-2026: Key Dates & Holidays
The The Westfield School Calendar includes key dates for the school year, such as the first and last day of school, holiday breaks, teacher workdays, and high school graduation. Families can use this to plan ahead and stay on top of important schedule changes.
Houston County School Calendar 2025-2026: Key Dates & Holidays
The Houston County School District 2025-2026 Calendar includes key dates for the school year, such as the first and last day of school, holiday breaks, teacher workdays, and high school graduation. Families can use this to plan ahead and stay on top of important schedule changes.
