Leigh Jackson

Biography

Chef Leigh Jackson is a Family and Consumer Science Teacher and FCCLA Advisor at Stockbridge High School in Stockbridge, Georgia. Beginning her work career in the medical field, she transitioned to the wonderful world of Culinary Arts, graduating from the International Culinary School at the Art Institute of Atlanta. Working as a Private Chef and running a catering company provided valuable experience that has translated to exciting extended opportunities for her Food and Nutrition students. Transitioning to public school education had not been planned, but Chef refers to it as her “surprise destiny”. Her love for, and pride in her students runs deep. At the heart of everything is her belief that Career and Technical Education is an absolute necessity for students today. Non- traditional post- secondary education offers viable and lucrative options for many graduating high school seniors.

Choosing to participate in the Lead2Feed Leadership Program proved to be an excellent choice for Chef’s students. The Lead2Feed program integrated into the curriculum seamlessly and provided a platform for leadership growth and experience that could not be easily duplicated for middle and high school classrooms. Allowing students to drive the initiative not only made for a successful learning experience, but caused the initiatives they established to be meaningful to both the students and community recipients.

Chef Jackson just completed her 12th year as a formal educator and was named as Stockbridge High School’s Teacher of the Year 2016-17. She is married to Ray, a retired educator and daughters Madison (19) and Isabella (16) live with them in McDonough, GA. Their eldest daughter Barbee, son-in-love Zachary, and the grands Elizabeth, Joseph, Isaac and Alexander live just two hours away in Columbus. They are truly her heart.

Educational Background

A.A. Culinary Art International Culinary School Art Institute of Atlanta Atlanta, GA

B.S. Ed Workforce Education and Development Valdosta State University Valdosta, GA

M.S. Ed Adult and Technical Education Valdosta State University Valdosta, GA

Certified Instructor/Proctor National Restaurant Association  ServSafe Certification

Kappa Delta Pi

FCCLA Advisor

National Board of Teachers Field Tester

GACE FACS Exam Writer