For three decades, Ms. Jessica Turner has helped build a music program that goes beyond performance. Teaching orchestra, band, music theory, music history, and more, she has turned her classroom into a space where students learn not only to play, but also how to understand and appreciate the art and history behind music.
“Ms. Turner is one of the most dedicated and hardworking people I have ever met. She is extremely knowledgeable in both music and life, but what makes her truly special is that she never stops learning,” says Thao Pham, President of the Foran Band.
Outside of her classes, Turner balances her career with her family life as a mother of two, Carter and Lincoln Shearer, one in high school and the other in middle school. This gives her a personal understanding of the academic and extracurricular pressures her students face. This perspective allows her to create opportunities and schedules that help students to grow both musically and academically. Turner encourages her students to take classes they genuinely enjoy and that will support their future goals, while also motivating them to participate in clubs and sports.
Turner places strong emphasis on music theory and history, ensuring that her students develop a deeper understanding of the subject. By connecting technical skills to historical context, she helps students see music as more than just notes on paper. This approach allows her students to grow as critical thinkers and informed musicians.
“She’s a good person. She’s very focused, I think she can become strict at times, but I think it’s for the best of the band,” says Asia Hoogkirk, a freshman band student. Hoogkirk also states that Turner loves to encourage students to continue with music.
Turner’s dedication is evident in the way she runs her classes. Rehearsals are organized and purposeful. She may be strict at times, but her students understand that her high standards are there to help them improve. Turner challenges students to go outside of their comfort zone, whether it means performing a difficult solo, mastering a new scale, or understanding complex music theory concepts.
A graduate of Case Western Reserve University, Turner built a strong educational foundation that continues to influence the ways she teaches. Turner’s passion for music began at an early age. In high school, her father served as her composer, and his influence played a major role in inspiring her to pursue music.
Turner remarks, “I grew up around music, and I felt that music was a powerful thing to be a part of, and I wanted to give that same opportunity to my students.”
Turner now strives to provide the same guidance and inspiration to her students. Colleagues describe Turner as dedicated and hard-working, someone who would try to help and support everyone.
“Ms. Turner really cares about the school and her students and had high expectations that guided me into being a leader,” states Foran choir teacher Mr. Ian McNulty. He also says that from the start of his employment, Turner treated him pleasantly.
Her dedication is not only recognized by her students and colleagues but also by those close to her. Her son, C. Shearer, shared, “What I admire most about my mom is how she always works hard to give her students what they need. In and out of work, she puts others over herself.”
Even after 30 years in education, Turner continues to develop new teaching skills and grow with her students. She looks for new ways to challenge her students and keep them motivated, recognizing that each new batch brings different strengths and personalities.
“Ms. Turner has helped support and encourage my passion for music and the arts in general, and she has pushed me to grow and learn in more ways than I ever could have imagined,” states senior Sunny Montanaro.
For Turner, teaching music has never been about concerts or grades. It has been about shaping character, encouraging creativity, and giving students a skill they can carry with them for life. After three decades, her impact can be measured not only in performances but in the countless students who found their voice through her classroom and music.
