Meet the Founder

Courtney D. Jackson

For Courtney, supporting children and families has always been personal. As a mother of three sons, she knows the joy, responsibility, and everyday adventure of raising children. Of all the roles she has held, “boy mom” remains one of her favorite titles.

Courtney’s passion began while volunteering in the nursery and summer camp programs at Macedonia Baptist Church. At just 16, she started her professional career at New Life Child and Family Development Center, eventually advancing to Interim Director. Those early experiences helped shape a vision that continues to guide her today: creating welcoming spaces where children feel supported, families feel connected, and people have opportunities to grow.

Over more than 20 years, Courtney has served as an educator, center director, personal care assistant, social worker, consultant, and relational coach. Her work

has included supporting students with behavioral and mental health needs, helping parents work toward family reunification, and guiding an early learning center through operational challenges to achieve full compliance. Across these experiences, she has seen how compassionate care, strong relationships, and thoughtful leadership can make a lasting difference.

Courtney earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Kutztown University of Pennsylvania and is pursuing a Master of Arts in Human Services with a concentration in Child and Family Counseling at Liberty University. She also continues to learn through professional training, bringing fresh knowledge and practical experience to the people and programs she supports.

Rising Scholars brings Courtney’s vision to life through Breath of Life Doula Services, Rising Scholars Early Learning Academy, Camp Hero, and the Homeschool Enrichment Hub. As that vision grows to include additional support for adults and families, her purpose remains rooted in the same belief: everyone deserves encouragement, a place to belong, and the opportunity to thrive.

Our Mission

Rising Scholars creates opportunities for lifelong learning, enrichment, and growth for children, adults, and families. Through compassionate care, education, training, and coaching, we help individuals build confidence, strengthen connections, and thrive at every stage of life.

We also partner with schools and organizations to strengthen programs and build sustainable systems that support lasting success. Guided by evidence-based practices and a commitment to equity, we work to expand access to quality services and meaningful opportunities in communities that have historically been underserved.

Our Vision

We envision thriving communities where children, adults, and families have the support and opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed throughout their lives. Through meaningful experiences and inclusive programs, we strive to inspire confident learners, strengthen families, and build workplaces where people feel valued and empowered.

Our vision is guided by four core values: Growth, Learning, Development, and Success.