Hi. I'm Dr. Jessie Gale.

Before I was an educator, I was a kid obsessed with reimagining my space. Constantly sketching new layouts, swapping out colors, and hunting for ways to make my room feel more me. That early fascination with how spaces shape us never went away. Over time, it grew into a passion for creating environments where children feel seen, inspired, and free to grow.

I'm a forever educator, a former first grade teacher, and, for the past decade, a Senior Research Scientist at Georgia Tech's Center for Education Integrating Science, Mathematics, and Computing (CEISMC), where I study how kids learn, play, and problem-solve — especially in STEM environments. I hold a Ph.D. in Educational Studies from Emory University.

I approach design the way I approach research — with curiosity, rigor, and deep respect for the people at the center of it. My work has always centered on helping children grow into themselves — with confidence, curiosity, and joy. Now, through Now & Next Studio, I get to blend that lifelong love of design with my background in education, child development, and research.

I'm also a mom, an adoring aunt, and a LEGO robotics coach. I believe the best designs start with listening, evolve through collaboration, and always leave room for play.

Let's build something joyful together.