Veronica Jackson, Alexandria City High School’s orchestra conductor, is known among her students for her passion, talent and welcoming classroom. When walking into the orchestra room, students from different cultures come to play strings and enjoy the community that Jackson has created.

Jackson’s passion for teaching and music was fostered from a young age. As the second oldest of ten children, she grew up with a sense of community, sharing, collaboration and communication. Jackson’s parents always emphasized the importance of education. 

“All ten of us did well in school and all ten of us played an instrument,” she said. “We often had ‘choir rehearsals’ and ‘instrument rehearsals’ together — such fond memories.” 

Jackson’s parents’ emphasis on education ultimately led to teaching being her natural career choice. She was supported by mentors throughout her life who helped her hone her approach on working with people, a skill that is essential in education.

Outside of teaching, Jackson enjoys mystery books, 7-11 coffee, glazed donuts, and listening to podcasts such as The Moth, Hidden Brain, and Sticky Notes.

Jackson began her studies at the University of Miami where Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and NFL Hall of Famer Michael Irvin were among her classmates. She then transferred to North Carolina Central University where she earned a bachelor’s degree with a concentration on music education.

Before coming to ACHS, Jackson taught in Raleigh, N.C., Richmond, V.A., and at Francis C. Hammond Middle School in Alexandria. At Hammond, she grew the orchestra program from 75 students to 180 students. She has been at ACHS since Sept., 2020.

Jackson’s first year teaching at ACHS proved to be very challenging as it was the year of the Covid-19 pandemic. 

“Zoom classes were a bit of a disaster for music class,” said Jackson. 

Eventually, she decided to restructure her classes and meet with students in smaller groups. During this time, Jackson started the beginning strings program. 

“I cried with joy almost every day because of how the students who joined this class responded,” said Jackson. “I am proud to say that the beginning strings program at ACHS is still going strong.”

During this time, Jackson worked with music teachers across Alexandria City Public Schools and did “Virtual Friday” music events. Professional musicians from all over the world were invited to play and the guests were ACPS music students. 

Jackson values exposing her students to music from all over the world, but emphasized Black history: “I like to celebrate Black history by sharing the stories and successes of those who look like me. I value the fact that I am an African-American woman who plays the violin, teaches orchestra, and is a highly sought after conductor and clinician. I am Black history.”

Jackson’s favorite part of teaching is the “newness” and the triumphs and challenges that go along with it, in addition to the great community.

“My students and colleagues teach and remind me of how special it is to be a part of a community of people who value the exchange of ideas as we strive for excellence,” said Jackson. “I learn something new almost every day.”

Jackson’s favorite students embody willingness to learn and grow.

Jackson’s love of teaching is inspired by words from famous cellist Pablo Casals. When Casals was asked about why he practices the cello every day, Casals said, “Because I think I am getting better.” Jackson has taken these words to heart. 

“Meeting students where they are and finding opportunities for them to grow is what makes my job challenging at times, but mostly enjoyable,” she said.

Jackson’s advice for future teachers is to show up, tell the truth, listen, pay attention and not get too attached to the outcome. 

Her philosophy of teaching is to give students opportunities to grow and learn. She meets with students before and after school, provides opportunities to learn about all kinds of music from Bach to Rock, manages summer music camps and gives her students the opportunities to work with directors in local, regional, and statewide ensembles. 

As a display of all her efforts, Jackson was awarded as the “Orchestra Director of the Year” by the Virginia String Teachers Association.

 “To have these efforts recognized by those in my profession is heartfelt and rewarding,” said Jackson. “I am most grateful for the daily work that goes on in my classroom.”