My Story
I entered the field of education nearly two decades ago, driven by a hope of making a meaningful impact. After much deep reflection, I had the harsh realization that my work, as meaningful as it was, often missed the mark of being truly transformational.
It was even harder to accept that the very population I intended to serve—those from underprivileged backgrounds—was the group most adversely impacted by the current educational structure.
The more I examined this, the clearer it became: a critical gap exists in our standard curriculum. Students are taught physical education, driver’s education, and a wide range of subjects, yet socio-emotional and financial education are much needed but noticeably absent.
Get The G.I.S.T. was created to fill this educational gap.
Meet Our Team
Since its inception, G.I.S.T. has grown into a dedicated team of passionate collaborators from diverse backgrounds, all united by a shared commitment to equip communities with the tools to be emotionally and financially empowered.
Ed Banks
Executive Director
Ed is a passionate educator with nearly two decades of teaching experience across diverse educational settings. His career spans public and alternative schools in Chicago, international schools offering Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate programs, and schools in the U.K. teaching GCSE and A Levels curricula. In addition to his dynamic classroom presence, Edward has over a decade of experience as a subject area leader and curriculum developer. He holds a Bachelor of Science in History and a Master of Arts in Teaching, reflecting his deep commitment to education and lifelong learning.
Board of Directors
Teressa Banks
Asset & Wealth Management Professional
Teressa is an accomplished Wealth Management Professional with over a decade of experience working in investment banking both in the UK and UAE. She brings a wealth of knowledge in the areas of finance, entrepreneurship and real estate to the team. In addition to this Teressa holds a Masters Of Arts in Education.
Dr. James Ford
Executive Director of Center for Racial Equity In Education (CREED)
Dr. Ford is an award-winning educator and the Founding Executive Director of the Center for Racial Equity in Education (CREED). A former North Carolina Teacher of the Year and State Board of Education member, he brings deep experience in equity-focused educational policy and leadership. Dr. Ford’s work centers on dismantling systemic barriers in education, a goal perfectly aligned with the mission and vision of G.I.S.T.
Kim Bradley
Assistant Principal Chicago Public Schools
With over 20 years of experience as both educator and administrator, Kim has had the privilege of working with some of the most at risk youth in the city of Chicago. Holding graduate degrees in both Special Education and Educational Leadership has allowed her to serve in several capacities including Lead Teacher, Case Manager, and her current role as an assistant principal. With the majority of her tenure spent serving in non-traditional school settings, Kimberly has shown a commitment towards ensuring that all students have access to a high quality education that allows them to become responsible and contributing members in society.
Jason Spivey
Educator & Department Head at American International School of Dhaka
Jason is an accomplished international educator with over 20 years of experience specializing in Economics, and Business Management within IB, AP, and MYP curricula. He is an Apple Distinguished Educator recognized for integrating technology and innovation into education. His expertise in curriculum design, instructional leadership, and fostering critical financial literacy uniquely positions him to contribute to the mission of spreading wealth management education globally.
Calvin Epps
Educator, Chicago Public Schools
Calvin brings 15 years of diverse educational experience to the board. He currently serves as a Special Education teacher as well as student mentor in Chicago Public Schools. His career spans five years teaching in the Middle East, three years teaching in Texas, and three years developing curriculum in Beijing, China. Calvin holds a B.S. in Journalism from Syracuse University and an M.Ed. in Education Policy and Management from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. His broad body of work reflects his commitment to innovative, global, and inclusive education practices.