Pictured from left are Carrollton Upper Elementary ESOL teacher Jessica Maston and CUES Principal Tabitha Walker.

CARROLLTON, GA — Carrollton Upper Elementary English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) teacher, Jessica Maston, is one of 58 teachers across the state to be recognized as an outstanding ESOL educator who positively impacts students’ lives in her school and community.

Each year, the Georgia Department of Education awards teachers with the ESOL Exemplary Teacher honor. ESOL is the state-funded language instruction educational program for eligible English Learners (ELs) in grades K-12 in Georgia public schools. Recipients serve as model educators, pursuing opportunities to improve their instruction. As an ESOL teacher, Maston focuses on developing her ELs’ academic English proficiency to support success in school.

Maston is finishing her 19th year teaching and brings a wealth of knowledge to the classroom. Having taught in linguistically diverse areas in California and the suburbs of Chicago, her vast experience has enabled her to empower her students over the last three years with Carrollton City Schools.

CUES Principal Tabitha Walker said Maston is incredibly deserving of this honor.

“Mrs. Maston never hesitates to go above and beyond for her students. She helps them develop their language skills to move forward with confidence, both in and out of the classroom,” said Walker. “Her commitment to pursuing professional development opportunities and implementing innovative teaching practices demonstrates her dedication to her role and students.”