Biography: Jess Claesson joined Seattle Academy in 2018 and is entering her 4th year as Study Skills Department Chair. She has had the privilege of teaching Study Skills both in the Middle School and Upper School divisions. At SAAS, Jess previously worked with the Student Facilitator Program and Forefront Suicide Teacher Training. Before coming to SAAS she helped build the Guided Study Hall program (Study Skills) at Eastside Preparatory School where she also acted as a lead advisor and as co-leader of both the Peer Mentor Club and Equity and Inclusivity Club. In a previous life, she appeared on stage both in Seattle and New York City. She later earned her Masters in Social Work with a concentration in Innovation and Social Change from the University of Southern California. Jess enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and gardening.