LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

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Jessica Esfahani

Position: Art and Photography Educator
School: Eureka High School
School District: Rockwood School District
City, State: Eureka, MO

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Jessica Esfahani was nominated by a colleague, Dr. David Arledge.

Ms. Esfahani, also known as "Ms. E," is a fantastic teacher who thrives on creating positive relationships with students. Some students didn't even know they liked art or photography before taking a class with Ms. E! She creates these relationships through trust, respect, and understanding. Many of "her" students will take every class she teaches because they know she is their person!

Ms. E is a leader in the school and at the district level. She has taken on various leadership roles in the building and has helped rewrite the district-level curriculum. She is a mentor for less experienced teachers and models the appropriate methods while providing constructive feedback to students and staff. Ms. E maintains a positive relationship with former students and their families; many of those students return regularly to visit their teacher. Many parents still reach out by email or phone (or dinner meet-ups) to let Ms. E know how well their kids are doing.

"Jessica is a fantastic teacher but an even better human. She puts others before herself, leads with kindness and empathy, sees the best in others, and shows respect and trust. We are so lucky to have her at Eureka High School and as an integral part of our incredible staff," said Arledge.

Comments (18)

Kingston Posted 2 months ago

I love art bro

Dana Safi Posted 2 months ago

Mrs.Esfahani is one of the most caring Art teachers I’ve ever had. Always trying to bring out the best in her students, and even helping me personally out in a number of situations. Truly showing that she cares about each one of her students wanting to help them succeed in the best ways possible. I will forever be grateful for the opportunities and experience she has given to me and can not wait for other students to experience her heartwarming classes.

Collin Swingle Posted 2 months ago

Coming to Mrs E’s class was always a highlight of my day. There is never a dull moment in her class. I can’t wait to take more of her classes.

Kim Swingle Posted 2 months ago

Mrs. Esfahani is an extraordinary art teacher who inspires creativity and confidence in every student she teaches. I am so thankful that Mrs. Esfahani has taught and positively influenced both of my children in her high school courses. It is evident that Mrs. Esfahani is known for her dedication and kindness, she creates a welcoming environment where students feel supported to express themselves through art. She takes the time to personally connect with each student, learning about their interests, strengths, and challenges, and tailoring her guidance to help them thrive. Beyond the classroom, she goes the extra mile— organizing art showcases to celebrate their work, and attending school events to cheer on, as well as take the most amazing photos of her students in their pursuits. Her passion for art is matched only by her unwavering commitment to nurturing her students’ growth, both as artists and as individuals. Mrs. Esfahani truly embodies what it means to teach with heart, purpose, and genuine care.

Evy Kreher Posted 2 months ago

Mrs. Esfahani is one of the most beautiful people inside and out. Made such a positive impact on my life in high school and even three years out of high school I could never forget her. She deserves all the goodness in the world.

Austin Scott Posted 2 months ago

Mrs. E is an awesome teacher. She truly cares about each and every one of her students, and shows it every day. She always creates fun and exciting projects which makes her students keep wanting to come back semester after semester. I can positively say Mrs. E has a huge impact on the students she teaches, becoming a role model for them all. #lovemrse

Raylin Hawkins Posted 2 months ago

Mrs. E is an amazing teacher. My absolute favorite, and I am so glad to have taken photography twice with her. She’s amazing at not only teaching, but photography as well. I wish there were enough words to describe how wonderful she is. She truly changed me in a way i couldn’t have imagined, and now, going into college I’ll be minoring in photography, all because of her. Thank you Mrs. E, I will forever be grateful to you for everything you’ve done for us. We love you!

Anna Brotherton Posted 2 months ago

Mrs. E is the best teacher any student could ever ask for! She has changed my life in so many ways, and is always pushing me to be the best person and photographer I can be. She is truly my biggest role model in every way.

Max lange Posted 2 months ago

Mrs. E is the best teacher I’ve ever had. She is one of the most welcoming and funny teachers. Ever since I met her freshman year I have wanted to come back every semester. She is always there for any of her student and or other teachers if they need to talk. She is really the best teacher I could ever have. #lovemrse

Jonathan Yates Posted 2 months ago

Mrs. Esfahani is the best! I used to hate anything to do with art. It was by far my least favorite class and anytime I had to take it it was because I was forced to. Then, after having Mrs. Esfahani freshman year for art fundamentals, I really started to love and enjoy the subject. I took photography so I could have her again, and now photo is one of my favorite classes. Photography is now something I do in my free time and she has changed the way I view the world. I could not ask for a better teacher. Thanks Mrs. E!

Jackson Borgsmiller Posted 2 months ago

Mrs E is an amazing teacher. She always has awesome photo assignments the class loves. Her class is always super fun and chill.

Jack McMillen Posted 2 months ago

Mrs. E is da bombest teacher ever in the universe #lovemrse

Lucas Vandegriffe Posted 2 months ago

Mrs E is the best teacher I’ve ever had! She is one of the most inviting and funny teachers and ever since I met her I haven't seen a smile leave her face. She sticks with all her students through any adversity they face and is truly one of the greatest teachers and people to walk the planet! #lovemrse

Jenna Selbert Posted 2 months ago

Mrs. E has influnced my life in so many ways! She has given me a creative outlet and inspired me to be the best that I can. I truly can't imagine my highschool experience without her.

Tony Lasley Posted 2 months ago

Mrs. E is one of the best! She has made our daughter feel seen.

Grace Marshall Posted 2 months ago

Mrs. E is someone who I looked up to every day when it came down to keeping up with photography. Her talent is on another level and she never fails to share her tips on how to not only become a better student, but a better photographer. She is passionate about her craft and enjoys what she does. She always makes her students feel at home in the classroom and gives every one of them the support they need to get through the semester. I watched myself and my peers become better at the craft of photography simply through her teachings and the knowledge that she has shared with me is something i will keep for a lifetime. She’s truly one of a kind and a life changer.

Logan Posted 2 months ago

Mrs. E is the best!! By far one of the best teachers I had the opportunity to have (many times!!).

Lisa Posted 3 months ago

She is absolutely amazing & undoubtedly loves her job. Her passion for art and photography has been evident since she was a young child. She truly cares for her students & loves to see their art come to life. She definitely deserves this recognition!