Our Staff
Ellis Crasnow
Co-Founder and Director of Community Engagement, STEM³ Academy
After earning his PhD in philosophy from USC, Dr. Crasnow taught at the college level, both in the U.S. and South Africa. In 2008, he joined The Help Group teaching high school math, science and English before becoming Principal of Village Glen High School. In 2012, The Help Group began a STEM program that Dr. Crasnow led. Dr. Crasnow is a frequent international speaker at conferences on the importance of STEM education and its benefit to those with social and learning differences.
Justin Jackson
Head of School, STEM³ Academy, The Help Group
Justin “Dr. J.” Jackson became the new Head of School for STEM³ Academy after relocating to Los Angeles from South Florida. There he served as an administrator in the Fort Lauderdale area. Previously, he has led a STEM³ magnet program in a large, urban middle school, supervised special education programs in a public school setting, and has years of experience with professional development for educators. He holds a doctorate in educational leadership and a masters in literacy and learning styles. Dr. Jackson believes in the power of project-based learning, and he will continue to work tirelessly to assist the students and families of STEM³ Academy.
Martha Jimenez
Head of School, STEM³ Academy, The Help Group
Martha Jimenez is a Help Group employee who is well known to the parents, students, and staff of STEM³ Academy West in Culver City. She has been with The Help Group for 15 years and is an integral part to STEM³ Academy West. During that time has been involved in curriculum development, staff training, and professional development, as well as the implementation of best evidence-based practices. She holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis on children, teens, and families. Mrs. Jimenez is a firm believer in project-based learning, multi-modal learning, out of the box thinking, and holding the bar high for our STEM scholars.
Greg Constant
Consulting Principal
We’re excited to welcome Greg Constant to STEM³ Academy as the new Principal at our Valley Glen campus! Greg was most recently Principal of The Help Group’s Bridgeport School and has worked in special education administration for over 20 years. Greg has an MA in Sociology, an MA in Educational Administration and a Juris Doctor. He has a love of math and science and is excited to bring his passion for learning to STEM³ Academy. Needless to say, We are thrilled to have him join us as our Consulting Principal!
Megumi Guillaume
STEM Coordinator
For 14 years, Megumi Guillaume has been with The Help Group and has played an integral role within the STEM program. She has been teaching science including the AP courses for over 34 years. With her science background from Berkeley and UCLA, and her many years in special education, she implements project-based learning into the curriculum. Many of the families at STEM³ are already familiar with Megumi’s energy and passion for teaching, and for designing cross-curricular projects where the Arts, Engineering and Science intersect. This year, she will transition from the classroom to become the STEM Coordinator for all three campuses and provide support to the teachers and students.