Improvement of Experience for School Navigation
December 15, 2016 - Chief Ombudsman and Compliance Officer Yolanda Asamoah-Wade spoke Tuesday morning (Dec. 13) to RCSD senior leaders in the Superintendent’s Cabinet, reinforcing the need to improve the experience of students and families as they navigate our school system.
Asamoah-Wade, who was appointed to this newly created position by Superintendent Barbara Deane-Williams last month, brings experience in law, teaching, building and district leadership, restorative practices, conflict resolution and advocacy for children and families as both a professional educator and an attorney. Shown here on a visit to Dr. Louis A. Cerulli School No. 34, she explained that she intends to meet with students, families and staff members across the District over the next 30 days as she learns about District programs, policies and practices while engaging in dispute resolution conferences.
Superintendent Deane-Williams has created a 100-Day Listening and Learning project team to recommend ways the District’s Central Office can be more responsive to students, families and staff members. A top goal is to create a district where every child is supported by name and face to achieve grade-level expectations and on-time graduation.
Asamoah-Wade explained to Cabinet members that in her ombudsman role she will support that goal by advocating for students and families directly when the system is not serving them well. As compliance officer, she will recommend changes to building and district policies, practices and procedures as needed to ensure that the District is meetings its obligations to students and families.