Jacqueline Walters, JD, SHRM-SCP

Experience

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  District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS)

  Jan 2011 - Jan 2023

  Managed the analysis and presentation of data and progress of data-driven initiatives for senior management and external audiences; incorporated their input; as well as anticipated, identified, and resolved complex obstacles, and supported early dispute resolution activitiesConducted needs assessments and developed programs to change within the organizationSubject matter expert on local, state and federal laws and policiesConceptualized a systematic approach to address stakeholder complaints; developed and implemented the program, including building a database for tracking trends and outcomesConducted educational seminars and training for internal and external stakeholdersRevamped the hiring process to ensure acquisition of talented that promoted the team’s missionSupervised a team of 10 compliance case managers tasked with ensuring effective implementation of district-wide laws, policies, and procedures, including Title IXDesigned and implemented onboarding process to support staff through effective mentorshipDeveloped team leads as effective trainers and mentorsDeveloped training methods and materials on “best practice” methods and protocols to support school teams in meeting federal and district level mandatesPlanned and facilitated professional development on diversity and ensuring equity across the organization Generated and disseminated materials such as Offer of Assistance brochures, and internal documents and templates to leadership and team members to ensure that information from DC Public Schools (DCPS) is easily understood, factually correct and consistent with federal and district law and regulationsManaged ongoing gathering and analysis of data for internal and external reporting; and evaluates effectiveness of programs and special projects towards meeting established goals and objectives.Ensured school-based stakeholders have the guidance, training, and support necessary to comply with state and federal laws governing school data Show less In this role, I directed initiatives in charge of program goals, including analysis and presentation of data-driven progress reporting, gap identification and analysis, and complex issue resolution. I managed needs assessments and developed school programs in line with organizational goals, ensured regulatory and legal compliance of operations, and liaised with stakeholders. I organized and led seminars, designed and implemented on-boarding and training processes, and led teams as a mentor and cross-functional leader.During my time here, I effectively settled 75% of all cases and won 100% of all supervised cases as a key strategic leader. I overhauled hiring processes to optimize talent acquisition and promote improved employee relations. Show less In this role, I oversaw program development as a key liaison and advocate for Special Education programs, including representation at hearings, site visits and investigation for compliance with Special Education requirements in schools, and development of strategic plans and progress monitoring for students. I developed relationships with partners and stakeholders, including OSSE, parents, schools, and other agencies. Moreover, I was specially recruited as a legal representative in Special Education hearings and meetings. I created and implemented corrective action plans to bring schools and programs into compliance with local, state, and federal requirements. I successfully resolved and mediated disputes through preventative action and diligence in addition to tactful relationship building.ents Show less

  • Senior Manager Project Management

    Jun 2015 - Jan 2023

  • Assistant Director

    Jun 2013 - Jul 2015

  • Senior Program Manager

    Jan 2011 - Jun 2013
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  KIPP DC

  Jan 2023 - now

  Director of Employee Policy

  Supporting sensitive and/or critical activities relating to staff policy development and implementationProviding advice and guidance on a daily basis on a variety of matters including employment law (e.g., Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, ADA, FMLA, FLSA, USERRA, NLRA, DC Human Rights Act)Monitor ongoing compliance with Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) laws and eliminate barriers to inclusion through policy management and investigations of harassment/discriminationWorking with managers and senior leadership to assist with personnel issues as they ariseConducting employee misconduct investigations Making staff disciplinary determinationsCoordinating staff workplace accommodationsAssisting with crisis response and staff support, including referring staff to Employee Assistance Program and coordinating fitness for duty reviewsInformally mediating disputes between staff and/or supervisorsExercising superior judgment in navigating difficult conversationsCollaborating closely with school staff, human resources, and other teamsDevising and delivering manager and staff trainings on relevant topicsDrafting and editing the employee handbookEnsuring strong recordkeeping regarding employee matters Show less