Weston Awards: Jessica Little

This is the latest in our series spotlighting the 2026 winners of the Judy Weston Awards for Inspired Teaching. Follow along each week to learn more about the impact these educators are making in the Montclair Public Schools.

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“If I could create the most magical, amazing teacher in my head, it would be Ms. Little. She is the embodiment of a phenomenal elementary school teacher—she’s in control of her classroom, she’s silly (but stern when needed), she engages students through play and structured learning, and she makes every day feel new and exciting.” 

This is how one parent began their Weston Award nomination letter for Jessica Little, a third grade teacher at Charles H. Bullock Elementary School. 

Ms. Little was praised for celebrating learning, holding students accountable, and understanding how kids think and feel. Some examples: 

1. “At the end of ELA learning units, she throws celebratory parties. The kids have had a Viking party, a Greek banquet, a fancy 'Toad Hall' celebration, and more! Not only does she engage the children, she also sends a fun invitation home so parents know what to expect and the kids feel like it’s truly a special day."

2. "Even on small worksheets, she gently nudges students to expand their writing if she knows they are capable of more."

   
   

3. And she truly knows her students – their friends, their likes and dislikes. "She uses that understanding in the classroom to bring out the best in each child."

A parent put it this way: "[Ms. Little] understands there are hard days, and she allows our kids the space to make mistakes and not be perfect…. The biggest compliment I can give is in how my child comes home… bouncing through the door—laughing, smiling, and excited to tell me what they did at school."

"At the beginning of the year, Ms. Little told parents that she 'loves teaching third grade, has always taught third grade, and always will teach third grade—it’s the perfect sweet spot.' She was absolutely right. She has clearly found her calling. As much as I would love for her to follow our children every year, she is exactly where she is meant to be.” 

For her creativity, high expectations, compassion, and ability to spark academic growth and a genuine love of learning, the Montclair community is proud to call Ms. Little an inspired teacher. Congratulations. 

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