SCHOOL YEAR 2023-2024 Hidden Talents

by Beth Watts (class of 1992)

Our school, known for academic excellence, owes much of its success to dedicated educators who shape and inspire its students. From instilling a love for learning new things to imparting invaluable knowledge of core subjects, teachers expertly prepare a new generation to enter the world. Beyond their subject expertise, however, our teachers have interesting talents and endeavors that reach beyond the classroom. Two of these teachers are English and public speaking instructor Jessica Wilkinson and math instructor Christina Jackson.

From acting in professional productions on stage to having recent roles in Hallmark and Lifetime films, eight-year English department instructor Mrs. Wilkinson searches for new and exciting experiences that tap into her love and talent of performing. Mrs. Wilkinson’s experiences in front of the camera and with writing have made for a seamless transition to a new, part-time endeavor as reporter and co-host for a lifestyle show on WLBT called Studio 3, keeping the public abreast of events, productions, businesses, and restaurants in the Jackson Metro area.

Christina Jackson (class of 1999), ten-year veteran of the math department, has a love and talent for baking. Her decorated cookies and cakes have made many happy and satisfied customers, as she offers her services professionally to those in need of special-occasion baked goods. From wedding cakes to personalized cookies, Mrs. Jackson’s artistic and culinary talent is evident.

During spring break, Mrs. Wilkinson hosted Studio 3 and welcomed Mrs. Jackson as a guest to teach viewers how to decorate cookies for St. Patrick’s Day. A blending of their two worlds made a special time for these teachers who both love what they do as educators but also find fulfilling ways to use their–until now–hidden talents.

Jessica talks Prep summer camps with Tracie Mallard and Don Regan on this WLBT video.