Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Gant
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My Story: Jessica Nicole Black- Gant
I’m Jessica Nicole Black-Gant and my journey is deeply intertwined with my passion for education. Growing up in St. Louis, Missouri, I attended elementary and high school in the Hazelwood School District and the Special School District.
My story took a significant turn in second grade when I discovered I had a learning disability called Dyslexia. Learning this was a relief, but it was still a tough pill to swallow when I had to repeat the second grade. My mother reassured me that everything would work out, and I held onto that hope.
One pivotal moment occurred during lunch when I noticed some classmates mocking students in the SSD classroom. I intervened, telling them to stop, and to my surprise, my action made a difference. The joy on the faces of those students inspired me to continue supporting others. This led to recognition from the Do the Right Thing Program, where I received an award for standing up for my peers. From that day forward, I vowed to always advocate for those who are disadvantaged.
As I progressed through school, I remained committed to that promise. It wasn’t always easy, but I pushed myself to excel. In high school, I worked hard to transition back into a typical classroom setting for English. Despite my own struggles, I found myself becoming a role model for some of my peers, even though I didn’t see myself that way.
By senior year, I had made it to the general education classroom, only using the resource room for testing. A teacher’s seemingly simple question about attending a two-year university sparked a new determination in me—I set my sights on graduating from a four-year university. In December 2009, I achieved that goal, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Development and Family Studies from The University of Pine Bluff, Arkansas.
Today, I’m pursuing a Master’s Degree in Business Management with a focus on Leadership and Management at Webster University. My journey continued to evolve in 2016 when I started Jessie B’s Academy, initially out of my mother’s basement with just four kids. Fast forward to 2024, and we’ve grown to a facility that accommodates 35 kids, with the potential for 45.
This journey has shaped who I am, fueling my passion for education and advocacy for others. I am committed to making a difference in the lives of children, by fueling their passion for education, just as I was encouraged to do.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The journey has been quite challenging, with several significant obstacles along the way. Initially, one of the biggest struggles was finding a suitable building to operate from during the summer months. This challenge led to a creative solution: moving operations full-time into a remodeled basement in my mother’s home. This temporary setup allowed me to continue my work and establish a foundation.
After about a year or two in the basement, we finally secured a location that seemed ideal. However, the situation was not without its own difficulties. Although the location was great for our needs, the property owner was not willing to sell. This has created a new challenge, as the organization has grown significantly and the demand for services in the community has increased.
Now, we are back on the search for a larger facility that can accommodate our growth and better serve the community’s needs. This ongoing struggle underscores the persistent challenges faced in trying to expand and sustain our vision, which highlights our resilience and commitment to our mission.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
At Jessie B’s Academy, we pride ourselves on being a beacon of love and inclusivity, particularly for children who face behavior challenges. Our commitment to nurturing every child stems from a deep understanding that each individual brings unique strengths and opportunities for growth.
Our motto, “Only Jessie B’s Academy provides enrichment beyond the classroom to exceptional students,” is more than just words—it’s a philosophy we live by. We take learning beyond the confines of traditional classrooms and embrace the vibrant community of St. Louis, Missouri, as an extension of our educational environment. By doing so, we offer our students diverse experiences that enrich their learning journey.
We hold true to the belief that “It takes a village” to raise and educate a child. This belief shapes our family-oriented atmosphere, where we welcome every child with open arms, regardless of the challenges they might present. We see these challenges not as obstacles but as opportunities for fun and innovative learning experiences. Our approach ensures that both students and teachers grow together, fostering a dynamic and supportive community.
Our academy is dedicated to creating a safe and loving space where children can be themselves and explore their potential. We are known for our inclusive practices, ensuring that every child feels valued and supported. This nurturing environment not only benefits the students but also motivates our educators to continually enhance their skills and knowledge.
At Jessie B’s Academy, we are more than just an educational institution—we are a family. We are committed to making a positive impact on every child’s life, helping them to thrive both academically and personally. Through our collective efforts, we create an enriching environment where learning is synonymous with love and community.
What makes you happy?
What makes me happy is a blend of personal connections, professional achievements, and the joy of exploration. Spending time with my family and loved ones is at the core of my happiness. These relationships provide a foundation of support and love that enriches my life.
Professionally, seeing my students and their families happy is incredibly fulfilling. At Jessie B’s Academy, I witness the transformative power of education. Watching children grow and develop skills they couldn’t imagine having when they first arrived is a source of immense pride and joy. It’s inspiring to see them leave with the confidence to achieve anything they set their minds to.
Additionally, the growth of my business is a significant source of happiness. It represents not just professional success, but also the impact I am making in the community. The academy is like a second family, and seeing it thrive is deeply rewarding.
Vacations are another important aspect of my happiness. They allow me to unwind and recharge, providing a necessary balance to my busy life. However, even when I’m away, I often think about how to bring my staff and family along on these adventures. Sharing these experiences and exploring the world together strengthens our bonds and creates lasting memories.
Helping others is also a key component of my happiness. Knowing that I am making a difference in someone’s life and contributing positively to the future is incredibly rewarding. Whether it’s through education or other means, making an impact on others brings a deep sense of fulfillment.
In essence, these aspects of my life are intertwined, each reinforcing the other and creating a holistic sense of joy and purpose.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://WWW.JESSIEBSACADEMY.ORG
- Instagram: JESSIE B’S ACADEMY LLC.
- Facebook: JESSIE B’S ACADEMY LLC.
- Twitter: JESSIE B’S ACADEMY LLC.
- Youtube: JESSIE B’S ACADEMY LLC.
