Jaclyn supports DPI’s K-9 student programming, which is focused on the development of 21st century and computer science skills, belongingness, and learning pathways into computing and related tech fields, and supporting progression through school transitions from elementary to high school.
Jaclyn started her education career in 2009 as a formal classroom educator, after graduating with her Bachelor’s in Biological Sciences & Secondary Education from Eastern Illinois University, for four years – one year in Phoenix, AZ and 3 years in Chicago, teaching middle and high school life science subjects, mainly Biology and Anatomy. After 4 years in the classroom, Jaclyn shifted gears and moved to the non-profit education realm when she took a position with Project Exploration, a non-profit educational organization in Chicago that provides out-of-school time STEM programming for youth and teens. She had the opportunity to build the program portfolio, strengthen the organization’s ties in the south and west sides of Chicago, as well as initiating new programming and training staff to support these new initiatives.
Following her work at PE, Jaclyn worked as a STEM Program Manager at Lake View High School in Chicago, where she redesigned and developed their Innovation Lab makerspace and increased programming available to students and staff, while leading the STEM focus at the high school to build opportunities for students to develop college/career readiness skills. In 2021, Jaclyn moved into a leadership role at the Museum of Science and Industry as the Director of Youth Programs & Pathways. She was charged with leading the vision and strategy for on-site informal programming for middle and high school young people, including field trip experiences, after school/weekend programming, diversity and accessibility-focused initiatives, and supporting revenue generating goals for the institution. Most recently, prior to joining DPI, Jaclyn returned to her work at Project Exploration and supported the organization on some key projects, including a landscape survey and supporting the development of research papers regarding the impact of the organization’s work.
Jaclyn also earned her Masters in Public Policy Administration degree from the Illinois Institute of Technology – Stuart School of Business in 2021, and looks forward to continuing her passion for education policy and equitable educational opportunities for students through her new role with Discovery Partners Institute.