Julie Jackson-Forsberg

Julie Jackson-Forsberg is the current VP of Learning at Defy Ventures. Prior to their current position, they served as the Chief Academic Officer and Managing Director of Student Learning and Achievement for the Public Preparatory Network from January 2013 to December 2015. In this role, they were responsible for establishing and leading a growing charter management organization's academic team.

Under Jackson-Forsberg's leadership, the Public Preparatory Network saw average student performance gains of 16.0% in ELA and 23.7% in mathematics. The network's schools outperformed the city, state, and host districts, grew in proficiency by greater amounts, and performed at the top of the range for New York City charter networks.

In addition to their work with the Public Preparatory Network, Jackson-Forsberg also helped develop a Pre-K program model in partnership with Sesame Workshop and establish a new UPK program. Julie has also been instrumental in supporting schools through charter renewals and launch of new school sites.

Jackson-Forsberg is a skilled education leader with a proven track record of success in improving student outcomes. Julie is passionate about their work and dedicated to ensuring that all students have access to a high-quality education.

Julie Jackson-Forsberg has an Executive MBA from Rochester Institute of Technology, a Fellowship from Peabody Professional Institute in Charter School Leadership from Vanderbilt University, an MA in English and Composition Studies from Northeastern University, and a BA in Creative Writing and Chemistry from Hamilton College.

They work with Melissa O’Dell - Executive Director, Illinois, Jeanette Pineiro - Executive Director, Tri-State, and Sabrina Reid - Manager, Career & Reentry Programs, Northern California. Julie Jackson-Forsberg reports to Andrew Glazier, President & CEO.