DUST FLIES in the air as the Southside School’s Lady Saints’ softball team rounds the bases during practice. Coach Jessica Roper shouts instructions and encouragement as they work on speed, tight turns, and proper running techniques for the next big game. As a former softball player herself, Roper brings expertise to both the softball team she coaches and the physical education (P.E.) classes she teaches at Southside.
While Roper’s current position fits her like a glove, it took some time to find exactly where she wanted to be in her career. As a child living in Southern California, Roper had a passion for zoology and was certain she would become the next Jane Goodall. Over time, however, she realized the subjects required were not what she was interested in pursuing. Her family always recognized that she was a natural mentor, and in her early years of college, she considered switching to education as a major. That particular college did not think she was a good match for their education program, but Roper did not let that stop her from pursuing her dream.
A door opened for Roper when a coach from Cumberland University (CU) recruited her to play softball for their team.
“I transferred to CU without ever stepping foot on campus, trusting the process completely,” she said.
The smaller, intimate campus gave Roper everything she was looking for: a great team to play for and an education program that was thrilled to welcome her. Roper excelled in the program and found the instructors and coaches to be incredibly supportive.
“I had several professors at Cumberland who were consistently encouraging and deeply invested in me, not just as a student, but as a person,” she said. After graduation, Roper became a third grade teacher with a passion for teaching math and science. During her years in the classroom, Roper’s talent for teaching was recognized when she was awarded the Wilson County Teacher of the Year for 2023-24.
“When they announce the winner, they usually read excerpts from our personal statement and from the letters of recommendation,” she said. “At first, I didn’t realize it was me, but once I started hearing familiar words, I turned to my mom and said, ‘I think it’s me.’ I was shocked, and started to sob at the love I heard in the letters written.”
This award was no surprise to those who have seen Roper in action. Roper has always approached each student as an individual on their own journey, which gives them confidence personally and academically.
“My teaching philosophy is that you need to see students as whole people, not just learners of content,” she said. “Every child enters the classroom with a story, strengths, struggles, and potential that deserves to be honored.”
Recently, she has shifted from classroom teacher to full-time P.E. teacher and softball coach at Southside School. Though she was sad to leave third grade, she said her new position has been a wonderful experience. In the classroom or on the field, Roper has the same focus.
“At the core of it all, my goal is to help my students and athletes grow into better people,” she said.
During her first year of teaching, Roper had a girl in her class who told her she would play softball for her one day. Years later, the student did indeed become one of Roper’s Lady Saints athletes.
Recently, that student sent Roper a message that touched her heart and reaffirmed her calling.
“She wrote to me, ‘Hey, Coach, I just wanted to thank you for always believing in me, even when I didn’t believe in myself. You are a huge reason I am the person and player I am today, and I couldn’t be more grateful for you. I strive to be just like you, and I’m thankful I had the opportunity to be one of your players,’” she said. “I don’t share that to boast, but to explain why I do what I do.”
Roper is intentional about building relationships with students and their families. At the beginning of each school year, she sends home what she calls “parent homework” — a letter asking parents or guardians to share insights about their child’s strengths, areas for growth, interests, and expectations. Beyond the classroom, she makes an effort to show up for her students by attending ball games, recitals, and other activities whenever possible.
Beyond individual relationships, Roper is part of a school community committed to service. At Southside, the faculty has raised money over the years for United Way, which donates to local programs that help families in need. The school also hosts an annual Veterans’ Food Drive.
While academics are important, Roper said she hopes her students leave with something more valuable than test scores.
“Beyond academic achievement, I hope my students leave my classroom with confidence in themselves and a deeper understanding of what it means to be a good human being — one who leads with kindness and empathy,” she said.
She wants them to learn how to win and lose with grace, to act with integrity, and to always remember they are loved and supported, and she acknowledges the weight of that responsibility.
“Teaching is heart work. And heart work is heavy,” she said. GN
