The Assistant Child Ombudsman for Education is an independent, appointed position that operates under the direction of the Child Ombudsman. This role is responsible for monitoring, evaluating, and advocating for the welfare and rights of children as established in R.S. 24:525. Working closely with the Child Ombudsman, the Assistant Ombudsman plays a key role in ensuring that children’s rights are protected, and their voices are represented. This role involves reviewing state policies and procedures, advocating for systemic reforms, and ensuring the protection and best interests of children.
The Assistant Child Ombudsman for Education focuses on issues within the public K-12 education system, serving as a key advocate for the rights, interests, and well-being of children. Key responsibilities include monitoring, reviewing, and resolving complaints related to educational access, school discipline, discrimination, special education services, and other school-related concerns affecting students and their families. Working independently and in collaboration with the Child Ombudsman, this role also involves recommending and advocating for systemic reforms that promote equity and transparency in educational institutions.
The Assistant Child Ombudsman for Education will receive comprehensive training on the functions and responsibilities of the office and will provide cross-functional support to colleagues handling matters related to agencies beyond the education system, as needed.
Occasional travel is require to participate in relevant meetings, engage with stakeholders, and conduct on-site visits to monitor child welfare conditions.

Advocacy and Representation
• Represent the Child Ombudsman's Division in advocating for the educational rights of children in various forums.
• Act as a liaison between the Child Ombudsman Division and external stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and community organizations.

Reviews and Complaint Resolution
• Assist in reviewing complaints related to the education of children, ensuring thorough and impartial consideration.
• Work collaboratively with families and school systems to resolve complaints through mediation or other appropriate means.

Policy Analysis and Development
• Assist in the analysis of the effectiveness of services for children.
• Conduct research on current policies affecting children's rights and make recommendations for policy improvements.
• Contribute to the development of new policies and initiatives aimed at safeguarding children's safety and well-being.

Community Engagement
• Engage with the community to raise awareness of children's rights and the role of the Child Ombudsman's Division.
• Organize and implement outreach programs and educational initiatives to empower children and their families.

Collaboration with Government Agencies
• Collaborate with government agencies to ensure the implementation of appropriate child-centered policies and practices.
• Foster positive relationships with key stakeholders involved in child welfare, juvenile justice, education and health services, including behavioral health for children.
• Advocate for system reform to protect the safety and well-being of children.

Education Requirements
• Bachelor's Degree: A bachelor's degree in a related field such as education, social work, child welfare, law, public policy, psychology, social services or a similar discipline, and
• Advanced Degree: An advanced degree in a relevant field: Master of Education (MEd), Master of Social Work (MSW), Master of Public Policy (MPP), Master of Public Administration
• Experience in school administration and/or special education programs

Additional Qualifications:
• Knowledge of special education rights and responsibilities, general education laws and student rights.
• Training and experience relevant to performing the duties outlined in this section.
• Strong communication, advocacy, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to conduct thorough reviews and make recommendations for improvement.
• Commitment to protecting and promoting the rights and best interests of children.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information in compliance with office policies.
• Ability to pass a background check