Born and raised in Washington, D.C., Jean Childs is a product of the District of Columbia Public Schools. From a young age, she developed a passion for playing the piano, supported by her musically inclined family. Her mother, who studied music in college, and her father, who played the trumpet during his early education, introduced Jean to a diverse range of musical genres, including jazz and classical. This daily exposure came from her mother's playing and teaching as well as her father's extensive record collection.

Upon graduating from Eastern High School, Jean enrolled at Howard University. Although she initially pursued a major in zoology, she later switched to music education, focusing on piano performance. She earned her Bachelor of Music degree in 1980 and went on to obtain a Master of Arts in Teaching/Early Childhood Education from the University of the District of Columbia. Jean is a National Board Certified teacher and currently instructs music at Bridges Public Charter School in Washington, D.C.

Committed to maintaining her piano skills, Jean continues to study bi-weekly with her former piano professor from Howard, Dr. Raymond Jackson, who retired last year. One of Jean's greatest joys is witnessing her students develop a love and appreciation for music.