New Story Recruits Education Experts to Tackle Special Education Gaps

The inaugural board brings together heavyweights in the sector, including former U.S. Department of Education officials Valerie C. Williams and Karen Cator, alongside institutional strategist James Clements, researcher Todd Grindal, and evaluation expert Jill Lammert. Tasked with providing independent strategic counsel, these members will meet quarterly to guide New Story’s efforts in outcomes measurement, service innovation, and district partnership models.

New Story CEO Jonathan Bicknell stated that the organization aims to build scalable, student-centered models to meet rising expectations for measurable performance. By integrating the board’s expertise in policy and research, the company plans to address the complex academic and mental health needs of its population across its 75 schools and in-district programs. Co-chairs Beth Ackerman and Jeanna Pignatiello will lead these engagements, focusing on sharpening the organization's therapeutic quality and data-driven support systems.