Authors & Presenters

Yvette Jackson, EdD, is a former teacher who served New York City Public Schools as director of gifted programs and executive director of instructional and professional development.

Monica Jackson has many years of experience in education as a principal, counselor, and teacher. Currently, she is a managing director of elementary leadership at Frisco ISD in Frisco, Texas, where she helped lead schools to become successful professional learning communities.

Heidi Hayes Jacobs, EdD, is an internationally recognized expert in curriculum development, vertical planning, modern assessment design, and 21st century strategic planning. Her model for curriculum mapping is used throughout the world.

Brian Jaffe is an educational leader with 18 years of experience. He specializes in fostering positive learning environments, promoting self-care for educators, and implementing data-driven strategies for student success.

Darshan M. Jain is the director of mathematics and computer science at Adlai E. Stevenson High School in Illinois. Previously, he served as an award-winning mathematics teacher as well as as a curriculum team leader.

Chris Jakicic, EdD, an author and a consultant, was principal of Woodlawn Middle School in Illinois from 1999 to 2007. She began her career teaching middle school science.

Dr. Jacye Jamar, a former principal, has 20 years of experience in education. As a principal in progressive school districts in Texas and Oklahoma, she led initiatives that successfully achieved recognition as a Model PLC at Work school.

Haley James is the supervisor of instruction for Madison County Schools in Alabama. She previously served as an elementary principal, preK–12 assistant principal, instructional coach, and elementary teacher.

Christopher Jenson, MD, is a senior adviser for public health concerns in school districts and educational operations. Dr. Jenson brings a unique set of skills, knowledge, and experiences to his advisory role.