Final answer:
Jessica was nervous about the first day of school in 'Because of Mr. Terupt' due to the common fears associated with transitioning to new, unknown environments.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the book Because of Mr. Terupt, Jessica was nervous about the first day of school because it represented a significant change and the uncertainty that comes with new environments. Often, students face anxiety due to fears of social acceptance, adaptation to new academic challenges, and the desire to be seen as capable and successful. Jessica's nerves are a common experience shared by many students transitioning to new schools, similar to other characters in literature and real-life students as they progress through different educational stages and confront new circumstances.