IDEA Health Professions

They live in the East Austin Community and love raising their family in the same community of the IDEA Health Professions. They love to be outdoors whether it is on Lady Bird Lake, on the trails or hanging out at the playground with their friends and their kiddos. Mrs. Jackson started her teaching career as Kindergarten teacher at IDEA Rundberg and loved being a teacher and seeing students thrive with Reading and Math, at such a young age. Soon after becoming a Kinder Teacher, she became the Grade Team Leader and developed a love for leadership and working with teachers and to develop teachers. She then became a Founding Assistant Principal at IDEA Health Professions and is now the Principal in Residence here at IDEA HP Academy. She still has the honor of coaching teachers and leaders and making great relationships with families and our students!

An esteemed alumna of Howard University, Kristen holds a Bachelor’s in Human Development with a minor in Speech Pathology, coupled with a Master’s in Education.
Her professional voyage began with a pivotal role at the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools, where she immersed herself in the profound impact of Charter education. Kristen's diverse career path includes serving as a Programming Director with the YMCA, an Associate of Operations at Achievement First, and as a teacher, academics lead, and Dean of Students at various educational institutions, including the Noble Network in Chicago. Prior to assuming the role of principal at HPCP, she held a dual role at IDEA Parmer Park as the Assistant Principal and Academic Counselor.
Notably, Kristen achieved an outstanding A rating for IDEA Health Professions College Prep within her first year as Principal during the 2022-2023 school year, a testament to her unwavering commitment to educational excellence. Driven by a passion for fostering growth and development through a DEI lens, Kristen brings dedication to providing students with an equitable education experience. Thrilled to lead at IDEA Health Professions College Prep, Kristen remains eager to champion the success of students, families, and staff within the vibrant community she affectionately refers to as her CENTAURS!