Jessica Giles is a social justice advocate and collaborative leader whose career is grounded in the belief that an excellent education unlocks freedom and opportunity.

Jessica serves as the Executive Director of the Center for Strong Public Schools Action Fund and its affiliate non-partisan non-profit organization, the Center for Strong Public Schools– D.C., where she leads efforts to ensure every student in the nation’s capital has access to a high-quality public education.

Jessica began her career as an early childhood educator, where she saw firsthand how opportunity gaps can emerge as early as 18 months — and how strong schools, supportive families, and bold advocacy can change the trajectory of a child’s life.

Previously, she served as Executive Director of the D.C. Chapter of Democrats for Education Reform, its partner Education Reform Now Advocacy, and its non-partisan affiliate Education Reform Now. In these roles, she led successful advocacy campaigns, supported the election of candidates, and advanced evidence-based policies to expand educational opportunity, especially for students who are historically underserved.

Prior to that role, she served as Deputy Director for the D.C. Council’s former Committee on Education, where she helped shape policies that strengthened protections for students with special needs, improved outcomes for children in D.C.’s care, and expanded access to affordable childcare for working families. As part of her work on the Human Services Committee, she also championed policies that protect the rights and dignity of individuals and families experiencing homelessness — because she believes every person deserves stability, safety, and a chance to thrive.

Jessica holds a Bachelor’s degree in History from Furman University, a Master’s in Public Policy from American University, and a certificate in Education Finance from Georgetown University. Jessica proudly lives in the Capitol View neighborhood in Washington, D.C., with her 9-year-old rescue dog, Sammie.

At her core, Jessica believes that strong schools lift up families and strengthen entire communities, and that is worth fighting for.