Originally from North Carolina, Jarrett grew up in a small town where he moved from school to school and had to frequently manage different settings and expectations. Throughout his childhood, Jarrett had to navigate complex family dynamics and educational settings. Throughout his childhood, he had to navigate complex family dynamics, multiple school moves – these experiences have shown multiple strengths: resilience, patience, problem-solving, and creativity.

Educational Background

Jarrett earned two bachelor degrees (double major) at North Carolina State University (NCSU) in the areas of Human Biology and General Psychology. He understands the relationship between our physical and mental health – including the interrelation between the two. Following his undergraduate career, he moved and attended San Diego State University (SDSU) for his Education Specialist degree in School Psychology. At SDSU, Jarrett learned methods and strategies to bring cultural awareness and diverse perspectives to his service delivery. He refined his skills as a practicing School Psychologist alongside many great mentors throughout San Diego County. The program’s emphasis on Multiculturalism, Assessment-for-Intervention, and Consultation provided an excellent foundation for his future practice.

One of the most meaningful instructive experiences was a grant-funded program focused on Indigenous populations (Kumeyaay tribe). During this experience, he worked alongside other School Psychologists and School Counselors to provide culturally-affirming services to Indigenous students and families. These services included small counseling groups, academic intervention, and consultations with teachers and site administrators. Each activity incorporated an appreciation and acknowledgement of the community’s cultural history and heritage.

Jarrett has also participated with the Upward Bound (UB) program for a number of years. During his time working with first-generation students, Jarrett has honed his skills at developing motivation amongst teenagers, collaborating with other goal-oriented staff members, and helped find the balance between teaching personal responsibility and caring support. These teenagers remain a key source of inspiration that helps shape Jarrett’s unique approach to reaching students.

These experiences, and more, helped further emphasize the benefits and needs of various communities around San Diego county. From second language learners, indigenous populations, migrant communities, and those impacted by the system – each group deserves equitable access to effective advocacy, services, and interventions.

Journey as a Licensed Educational Psychologist (LEP)

In November 2019, Jarrett became a Licensed Educational Psychologist (LEP #3974) in order to provide effective services to families and young people beyond the school building. This work within the private sector is an extension of his efforts being applied within the school setting.

With a passion for academic interventions, data-based decision making, and systems-level changes, Jarrett has pursued educational equity for many years. To him, educational equity goes further than buzzwords (e.g., MTSS, PBIS, Trauma-Informed Care) into the community and family context. He enjoys partnering with families and providing meaningful strategies and solutions to difficulties. His priority is the client – whether that means he provides services or a referral to other clinicians. Jarrett understands that sometimes, we all just need a little guidance and encouragement to continue moving forward.

Jarrett currently works as a School Psychologist within San Diego county. He continues to be a strong advocate for students while working from a systems perspective in order to promote meaningful and sustainable change. Jarrett’s work as a Licensed Educational Psychologist is driven by his commitment to educational equity and the belief that all parents and students deserve effective services, supports, and advocacy.