Teacher's Page

Dear Harbor Ridge Families:

Eighth grade has started with energy and excitement. As your student's Language Arts and/or Social Studies teacher, I am looking forward to a great year. Hopefully you were able to have a conversation with your student the class syllabus. All students received a copy in the first days of school and it is also located in Schoology. If you have a question, please let me know. Email is a wonderful way to reach me because I can check it both at school and at home. My school number is (253) 530-1959 and, if I do not pick up, please leave a message. I will always do my best to return communication within a 24 hour window.

On a personal note, I worked previously in Orting teaching high school Composition, American Literature, History, and Mythology. I also spent eleven years in the financial industry before that developing skills from business management to customer service. After Orting, I stepped out of the classroom for a number years to devote my time to preparing my two boys, who attend school in the Peninsula School District as well, for school. I grew up in Gig Harbor but have also had the chance to travel around the United States and live in Texas for a period of time. Being an English teacher allows me to blend my passion for reading and writing with teaching. Being a history teacher allows me to help foster a natural curiosity in students for how the patterns of our past weave into the present and future.

Professionally, I have a Master's of Education in Curriculum and Instruction. In order to get to this point in my life, I have attended several colleges and universities which affords me understanding of expectations at the secondary and post-secondary education levels. With all the demands students face in our globalized world, I am fervent about making sure they are prepared for success.

Thank you very much for sharing your incredible student with me. I feel honored to be part of the Harbor Ridge community. Look for more communication in Schoology, through email, and paperwork.

Jessica Takehara, M. Ed

(253)530-1959

takeharaj@psd401.net