JESSICA NICKELS
Cedar Creek
Summary
Dynamic leader with experience in strategic program management, executive-level communication, and cross-functional collaboration. Expertise in translating vision into actionable plans, managing complex initiatives, and delivering high-quality presentations and data insights that inform critical decision-making. Proficient in stakeholder engagement, board coordination, and designing operational systems to enhance organizational efficiency and drive impactful results. Committed to fostering a collaborative environment that empowers teams and aligns with organizational goals.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
Work History
STUDENT SERVICES COORDINATOR
UT High School District-University of Texas at Austin
Austin, Texas
09.2022 - Current
- Spearhead collaboration and scheduling of district-wide training and special program initiatives.
- Apply process mapping to to streamline cross-team coordination and accelerate strategic plan deliverables.
- Manage stakeholder communication, addressing inquiries related to student services, registration, and compliance.
- Develop board-ready material (proposals, one-pagers, talking points) translating complex data into actionable narratives.
- Present briefings to senior leadership for course corrections.
- Oversee vendor budget tracking and ensure alignment with grant designations and program objectives.
- Partner with finance team to monitor expenditures and maintain compliance with state and federal funding requirements.
- Coordinate academic support services to enhance student engagement and performance outcomes.
- Train new staff on student service protocols, fostering a collaborative team environment.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of student support programs by analyzing data and making recommendations for improvement based on findings.
SPECIALLY DESIGNED INSTRUCTION CURRICULUM SPECIALIST
Bastrop Independent School District
Bastrop, TX
07.2021 - 06.2022
- Designed and delivered educator training aligned with district, state, and federal compliance requirements.
- Authored technical documentation and procedural guidelines to support inclusive instructional programs.
- Monitored regulatory changes to ensure training materials and instructional practices remained current and compliant.
- Collaborated with educators to design engaging instructional materials and resources.
- Coordinated curriculum development projects to enhance educational program quality and alignment with standards.
- Mentored faculty members in implementing innovative teaching strategies and best practices.
- Analyzed complex business problems and formulated actionable solutions to enhance operational efficiency.
TRANSITION (TOSA)/PROGRAM COORDINATOR
Washougal School District
Washougal, WA
08.2017 - 06.2022
- Supervised training staff and collaborated on cross-departmental instructional initiatives aligned with MTSS and postsecondary readiness goals.
- Developed training materials for staff, promoting effective curriculum implementation across diverse educational programs.
- Coordinated program schedules to optimize resource allocation and enhance student engagement.
- Coordinated community partnerships and created MOUs to expand services for students with disabilities and those in transition programs.
- Maintained compliance documentation for board reporting and state monitoring; ensured procedural integrity across multiple campuses.
- Managed dynamic schedules, resolved logistical challenges, and supported the implementation of equitable student support systems.
- Facilitated workshops and training sessions for community members to promote awareness of social issues.
READING SPECIALIST
Cedar Ridge High School
Round Rock, ISD
08.2014 - 06.2017
- Designed and led a campus-wide literacy intervention system to support diverse learners, including students with disabilities and those identified through MTSS.
- Mentored and coached new educators on evidence-based practices, data use, and inclusive instruction.
- Developed assessment tools and feedback systems to promote equitable access and continuous improvement.
- Developed tailored reading intervention plans to enhance student literacy skills.
- Analyzed student performance data to identify areas for targeted support.
- Collaborated with educators to assess student progress and adjust instructional methods accordingly.
INSTRUCTOR/TRANSITION SPECIALIST
Adult Education – Austin Community College
Austin, TX
01.2010 - 08.2013
- Developed and delivered adult education programs focused on equity, workforce readiness, and postsecondary access.
- Collaborated with curriculum teams to align instruction with learner goals, transition needs, and community supports.
- Led outreach and support initiatives for historically underrepresented students across central Texas.
- Developed engaging lesson plans tailored to adult learners' diverse backgrounds and learning styles.
- Facilitated classroom discussions to enhance critical thinking and encourage active participation among students.
Education
MBA - Operations Management
Rice University
Houston, TX08-2027
Doctor of Education - Curriculum & Instruction
Texas A&M University
College Station, TX05.2021
Master of Liberal Arts - English
Saint Edward's University
Austin, TX05.2007
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
Saint Edward's University
Austin, TX05.2000
Skills
- Special Education Compliance (IDEA, Section 504, Dyslexia Services)
- Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) Implementation
- Strategic Planning & Execution for Special Populations
- Instructional Leadership & Professional Development
- Data Analysis & Educational Program Evaluation
- Budget Development & Financial Oversight
- Staff Supervision & Performance Management
- Community Partnership Development & Stakeholder Engagement
- Proposal, Report and Agenda preparation for School Board Review
- Effective communicator
Timeline
STUDENT SERVICES COORDINATOR
UT High School District-University of Texas at Austin
09.2022 - Current
SPECIALLY DESIGNED INSTRUCTION CURRICULUM SPECIALIST
Bastrop Independent School District
07.2021 - 06.2022
TRANSITION (TOSA)/PROGRAM COORDINATOR
Washougal School District
08.2017 - 06.2022
READING SPECIALIST
Cedar Ridge High School
08.2014 - 06.2017
INSTRUCTOR/TRANSITION SPECIALIST
Adult Education – Austin Community College
01.2010 - 08.2013
Master of Liberal Arts - English
Saint Edward's University
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
Saint Edward's University
MBA - Operations Management
Rice University
Doctor of Education - Curriculum & Instruction
Texas A&M University