Career Roadmap
Jeanne's work combines: Education, Technology, and Upholding a Cause and Belief
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Day In The Life
Skills &
Education
Here's the path I took:
High School
Bachelor's Degree
Dickinson College
Graduate Degree
Business Administration and Management, General
Dickinson College
Here's the path I recommend for someone who wants to be an Education Administrators, Postsecondary:
High School
Bachelor's Degree: Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies
Graduate Degree: Business Administration and Management, General
Learn more about different paths to this career
Life & Career Milestones
My path in life took a while to figure out
1.
Took an entry level job related to government which I studied, to learn & network.
2.
Interviewed for many jobs on Capitol Hill, took the 1st one offered, and worked my tail off.
3.
Was noticed and offered a job at US Dept of Education where I learned how things really work in federal government.
4.
After 4 yrs was ready to move on when the Heritage Foundation offered me a pay cut & Education policy position.
5.
I took it and learned everything I could about the state of Education & started working to solve it.
6.
It was clear we needed a new organisation to do that so in 1993 I founded the Center for Education Reform.
7.
After much progress and 20 yrs I stepped aside so the next generation could lead and I could expand my activity somewhere else.
8.
And then the cause of helping grow great teachers at HotChalk became my new, additional quest.
Defining Moments
How I responded to discouragement
THE NOISE
Messages from Peers:
You should follow the rules, we don't do things that way here." They said, "why do you want to create anything new - do it with established organizations." And they said - and some still do - "oh why are you making such a fuss, it's not that bad!!
How I responded:
Make sure you have data that backs up what you want to do and that you've been broad and expansive in finding that data. When you do your homework, learn as much as you can, don't assume the most obvious answers are right or that people who have a name or are "experts" know everything. Question what is happening where you are. Armed with data and info, trust your instincts and your gut about what you want to do and with whom. Hold yourself to high standards and align with those who do, too.
Experiences and challenges that shaped me
I had no money out of school. I got 3 jobs. I had credit cards. I was sloppy and then realized that until I had more I shouldn't spend even $5 on something unnecessary. I didn't ask for help from anyone. I learned how to live within my means.