Jackie Hirtz

Jackie Hirtz, MS Ed., worked in publicity and public relations for authors and tech clients. She also taught elementary school for seven years before working as a writer in Concepts and Communications at Disney Imagineering and as an assistant to a producer at the studio. In addition to writing educational material for teachers and students, she created interactive "edutainment" for themed entertainment companies. Jackie's credits include Disney, the Los Angeles Times, Canter & Associates, and the Brentwood Media Group. Together, she and Marcy wrote for children's television, including Nickelodeon's animated series "Doug."

A writer and writing coach for students and seniors, Jackie says, "Each student has a little spark somewhere, and it's my job to inspire their creativity. My best moments happen when I see that "aha" glimmer in my students' eyes - when they suddenly know what they want to say, pick up the pen and write."

When not writing or coaching, Jackie is training her puppy Ella Rose to become a registered therapy dog and a Reading Assistance Education Dog (R.E.A.D)