If you ask Jessica Consla why she became a teacher, she’ll tell you it’s because she’s always been curious about people—their stories, their challenges, and the unique strengths they bring to the table. That curiosity, combined with her own experiences as a student who once struggled in school, has shaped the thoughtful and compassionate educator she is today.
This fall, Jessica joins Bridges Middle School ready to bring her love of learning, her big heart for students, and her belief that every learner has something valuable to contribute.
Growing Up
Jessica grew up in Happy Valley, Oregon, with her mom, dad, and older brother, Christopher. Her childhood was full of outdoor adventures, Barbie storylines, and elaborate pretend games with her best friend Sarah (who she’s still close with today!). She’ll never forget the “new student prank” her first-grade teacher pulled after she got glasses—an early glimpse into how creativity and connection can transform a classroom.
Her brother’s autism also shaped Jessica’s perspective in profound ways. As kids, they had the typical sibling ups and downs, but as adults, they’ve become best friends. “His adult self really gaslights my experience of him as a child! Today, he’s a well-adjusted, super sweet guy. As kids, he would terrorize me!” she recalls with a laugh. This close relationship helped fuel her passion for working with neurodivergent students.
School Days
While Jessica always loved school, academics didn’t come easy at first. Reading, writing, and math were tough, and she remembers being tutored on telling time and counting money. With support from her mom—and a little motivation fueled by spite whenever someone told her she “couldn’t”—Jessica grew from a struggling student to an advanced learner, finishing middle school already tackling algebra.
By high school, she found her stride. She discovered her love for English and creative writing, took AP classes, and even served as spirit commissioner on the student council. Her English teachers left a lasting mark, especially after her dad passed away right before freshman year. One teacher, in particular, showed Jessica how much it matters to meet students with empathy and flexibility. An approach she carries into her own classroom today.
Becoming a Teacher
Jessica studied Public Health and Sociology at Portland State University before realizing her true calling was education. She went on to earn her master’s degree in teaching at George Fox University, where she focused on both English and Social Studies. Along the way, she worked as a behavioral technician, direct support professional, and substitute teacher; Experiences that deepened her love for supporting neurodivergent learners.
Most recently, Jessica taught 8th grade language arts and social studies at Clear Creek Middle School in the Gresham-Barlow School District. When she learned about Bridges, she knew it was the right fit. “Middle school is so hard for everyone,” Jessica says. “Bodies are changing, subjects get harder, friend groups shift, and when you add neurodiversity into the mix, it can be even harder. I love that Bridges gives students small class sizes and teachers who really get to know them.”
Looking Ahead at Bridges
Jessica brings a contagious love for learning to her classroom. “We’re all learners. None of us are experts at everything,” she says. “I want my students to know that I value what they know, whether it’s part of our curriculum or not. We all flavor the human experience differently, and I want to know what unique spices my students bring to the table.”
Outside the Classroom
When she’s not teaching, Jessica enjoys reading, hiking, going to the gym, watching anime, and playing video games. She and her fiancé, Logan, recently adopted a new puppy named Robin, and together they’re busy balancing training, playtime, and plenty of cuddles.
We’re so excited to welcome Jessica to Bridges, where her compassion, energy, and creativity will inspire students to discover their strengths and reach new goals.
