Jessica Bernards

Jessica Bernards is a passionate mathematics educator who has been inspiring students since 2005. Her teaching journey began at the high school level before transitioning to full-time college instruction in 2010. Currently, she shares her expertise at both the University of Oregon and Portland Community College.

Teaching Philosophy

At the core of Jessica's teaching philosophy is the belief that "anyone can be a math person." She champions active learning, growth mindset, and fostering a sense of belonging in the classroom. Her approach emphasizes helping students understand not just the "how" but also the "why" behind mathematical concepts.

Achievements and Recognition

Jessica's innovative teaching methods and dedication to student success have earned her numerous accolades, including:

  • AMATYC Teaching Excellence Award

  • Leila and Simon Peskoff Award

  • NISOD Excellence Award

Leadership and Contributions

As a leader in mathematics education, Jessica serves as the Northwest Vice President of the American Mathematical Association of Two-Year Colleges (AMATYC). She is a sought-after speaker, regularly keynoting at national conferences and sharing her insights with educators across the country.

Curriculum Development

Jessica's impact extends beyond the classroom. She is a prolific curriculum consultant and author, having contributed to several mathematics textbooks. Additionally, she has developed an open educational resource (OER) math-specific study skills series, further demonstrating her commitment to accessible and effective mathematics education.

Professional Development Workshops

Jessica is dedicated to empowering fellow educators through professional development workshops. Her diverse range of workshop topics includes:

  • Equitable grading in STEM

  • Creating a sense of belonging in math classrooms

  • The Flipped+ Classroom Model

  • Ethical and responsible use of AI in teaching practices

  • Guiding students on using AI as an educational resource

Through her multifaceted approach to teaching, speaking, curriculum development, and professional development, Jessica Bernards continues to shape the landscape of mathematics education, inspiring both students and fellow educators to embrace the power and beauty of mathematics.