Jessica Jackson, Director of Programs & Education is an Afro-Latina educator and author from the South Bronx. She grew up between New York City and Massachusetts, all experiences that shaped her perspective and driving nature towards creating inclusive and welcoming environments for children and adults. Her professional career focuses on advancing educational equity, supporting people management and development, and—above all—spreading joy to children. She has an academic background in Child Psychology and Educational Leadership with various certifications in these respective fields. Jessica joined the BxCM team in June 2023 as Director of Programs & Education. In this role, she combines her expertise in leadership with her creativity as a published author and avid supporter of the arts. Her innovation, dedication to teaching, and commitment to building professional learning communities have guided her department into exciting new directions and creative endeavors.