Jessica Masterson

Research interests

“In my research, I am interested in exploring the many interconnections of literacy and democracy as they play out in public education. As an English and reading teacher in Hawai`i, I began to realize that the sort of literacy education that was mandated for students deemed to be ‘struggling’ was qualitatively distinct–and often far less engaging–than the literacy opportunities enjoyed by their on-grade-level and gifted peers. Because access to literacies of power has never been equal, practices like the ones I witnessed as a teacher have major implications for the health of our fragile democracy in the U.S.”

Teaching/Professional interests

“I am passionate about teacher education at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. I design my courses so as to facilitate authentic dialogue and discussion, and I work to ensure students have multiple, meaningful opportunities to learn from one another. In short, I believe in modeling the sort of classroom practices and pedagogies that we know to be most impactful.

Personal interests

“I love being outdoors! I am an avid runner, hiker, and swimmer. When forced inside, however, I very much enjoy reading fiction and completing jigsaw puzzles.”