As the owner and director of Jessie B’s Academy LLC, in St. Louis, Missouri, since 2016, Jessica Nicole Gant, MBA, has extensive, invaluable expertise working with children who have physical and intellectual disabilities. Well distinguished from other facilities, her academy seeks to enrich students’ lives beyond the classroom. Ms. Gant makes herself available for calls outside of normal hours, fostering a close-knit environment and emphasizing growth and support in every aspect of her students’ lives.
Relating to the young people she serves, Ms. Gant was diagnosed with dyslexia in the second grade and had to attend reading classes. During this experience, several neurotypical children bullied some of her classmates, and she stood up for them. As a result, she was recognized for her integrity and bravery with a Right Thing to Do Award from her school. From that point forward, Ms. Gant pledged to spend her life supporting people with disabilities. In 2009, she graduated from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff with a Bachelor of Science in human development, family studies, and related service. A decade later, she graduated from Webster University with a Master of Business Administration concentrating in leadership and management. Impressively, in 2023, Ms. Gant earned a second master’s degree, this time in human resources management.
Prior to launching Jessie B’s Academy LLC, Ms. Gant garnered experience as a behavior specialist for the Special School District in St. Louis, Missouri, where she worked with and cared for students in the district’s North and South County regions. From 2012 to 2014, she served as a lead teacher with the Child’s Garden Child Development Center. Believing that her community and family have played crucial roles in her success, she credits her unwavering dedication and humility for helping her remain committed to her professional goals. In honor of her contributions through Jessie B’s Academy LLC and her service as a civic volunteer, Ms. Gant has been recognized with an Outstanding Community Service Award in 2019, a Black Tie Community Award for Education in 2018, and a UOA Amen Fehlah Hudson Memorial Award. In addition, she received the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Award and maintains membership with the Better Business Bureau of St. Louis. Ms. Gant knows firsthand that consistency and staying true to one’s ideals can lead to incredible outcomes. Among her accomplishments, she considers being named St. Louis Director of the Year to be her greatest professional achievement. She also secured accreditation for Jessie B’s Academy LLC, marking another important career milestone.
Looking to the future, Ms. Gant plans to establish a new facility that can accommodate at least 100 children. She envisions this location having ample space for lots of events, including plays, dances, and galas. So far, she has rented out locations for her events, with the proceeds going toward funding her programs, including summer camps. In the long term, she aims to build a school district that will cater to children ranging from newborns to the eighth grade. Ms. Gant is in the early stages of this process, offering childhood education to students up to age 5. Despite facing challenges and difficult circumstances, she has exhibited a steadfast dedication to her convictions, believing strongly that children are the cornerstone of the future of society. As a staunch and committed advocate for children with disabilities, Ms. Gant recognizes that her career advancement has been entirely facilitated by her adherence to her core mission.
Hoping to leave a legacy for her daughter as someone who overcame adversity and persevered through her own dyslexia diagnosis, Ms. Gant aims to be remembered for creating a place where children always feel loved and welcome to return. She hopes her story can empower others to pursue their goals without limitations. In her personal time, she cherishes time with her family and enjoys traveling.