KISH: Tell us about you..
I was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia. I relocated to Virginia Beach, Virginia where I obtained my first teaching assignment and then relocated to San Diego, California where I worked with a company that assisted colleges and universities with digitizing their courses as well as assisting transcript evaluators and later on worked with the charter schools in San Diego Unified School District. I obtained my Bachelors in Business Administration with a concentration in Management, my Masters of Education specializing in Teaching Mathematics with a preliminary credential, my Masters of Education specializing in Instructional Design and Technology with a clear credential, as well as a certificate in Youth Life Coach and Mentorship on my journey to launching First Class Learning Academy in 2017. I have now dedicated my time solely to First Class Learning Academy. I am married with one step-son and looking forward to growing my household as well.
KISH: What is your dream and how will accomplishing your dream benefit you and others?
Jessica: My dream is solely about empowerment of individuals, helping others to get to know themselves, love themselves, be confident in what they know and confidently express what they do not know so that they can get the help that they need. Honestly, my dream is very selfless and it’s really about serving the community and that makes me feel good. Others, the community, would benefit because they would be more empowered and inspired to go after their dreams and recognize that their limitations are no longer limits that seem too far or high to achieve, but within reach.
KISH: Who or what inspired you to pursue this dream?
Jessica:In all truth and honesty, God. I ran from this dream for a long time, but it would find ways to resurface and search me out. I really do love learning and teaching others, but I have found out that it is not just about teaching others, but spending the necessary time with each individual to help them develop into being the individual that they truly are. It’s hard to do that in a classroom that has its own demands. When I realized that working with the individuals and organizations providing what the school systems was missing was more rewarding that a secured paycheck, I leaped to follow my dream and passion, putting all my faith and trust in God.
KISH: What challenges have you encountered while pursuing your dream?
Jessica: My biggest challenge is not having enough resources to build the business as I have visioned.
Marketing and web development and design has also been a challenge due the time that it takes, the lack of knowledge and know-how, as well as financial resources that it requires.
Lack of economic resources has also been a challenge because families are not able to afford services and as an organization, we can only provide discounts and limited scholarships so that we can also remain operational.
The sacrifice of time has impacted my immediate family and not having enough time. Working with the families, they receive 100% of my focus at the time of service as well have access to direct contact and communication with myself and the team 24/7. Not only that, developing the team that is helping to aid in the development of the organization also requires time. Although very time consuming, it is rewarding! I have to take this time to thank everyone who has supported me, especially my immediate family for understanding the lack of availability at times. I most definitely had to learn how to balance. I am still learning.
KISH: Who or what inspired you to keep pushing regardless of the challenges you’ve encountered?
Jessica: My passion and understanding that it is my purpose has been the push. I do have my confidants that have been my sounding board that listen to me vent and then acknowledge the impact that the services has had on the community. Having my close families and friends that sends “on-time” messages or make phone-calls when I am feeling the most exhausted. Having a personal relationship with God who constantly speaks life into my life that gives me the next breath that I need! I cannot even begin to name specific individuals because there are too many to name, but they are much loved and appreciated.
KISH: Please provide final thoughts/advice for others by finishing this sentence… dream.
Jessica: Dream, and never stop. Dream, and let your imagination become your reality. Dream, and know that there are no limitations! Dream. Don’t Refrain. Embrace, Act, and Make it happen. D.R.E.A.M.
