Dr. Chisel Valdez

Director of Family Engagement,
Gwinnett Co Schools

Dr. Chisel Valdez, Director of Family Engagement for Gwinnett County Public Schools in Georgia, is a seasoned educational professional with more than two decades of experience in the education sector. Over the years, she has served as a lead teacher, assistant principal, principal, Director of Federal Programs, and Director of Family Engagement. Dr. Valdez facilitates interactive training opportunities with district leaders, principals, assistant principals, and local school family engagement staff to build staff capacity to support and implement effective family engagement programs. As the Director of Family Engagement, Dr. Valdez leads cross-divisional family engagement teams in program implementation, training, resource development, and activities to engage families as co-authors for the success of their children.

Dr. Valdez also supports the creation of customized school action plans, including resources, tools, innovative workshops for families, and training to aid schools in reaching their delineated goals. She leads the onboarding process and community input meetings for all new Title I Schools and focus groups to provide families with opportunities to offer feedback and input for decision-making. Dr. Valdez firmly believes that family partnerships are crucial to ensuring academic success for students. She passionately advocates for equity, removing barriers to engagement, and supporting all students and families to ensure they have the tools they need to thrive.