Dr. Jacquelyn Ollison is distinguished in the field of education for her dedicated commitment to equity and justice. With a heartfelt focus on improving educators' well-being and professional development, Dr. Ollison has spent over two decades making significant strides in transforming teaching and learning environments. Her pioneering work addressing teacher retention, particularly in underserved schools, emphasizes the crucial challenge of compassion fatigue among educators—a deeply personal matter to her and the centerpiece of her doctoral studies.
In her distinguished role as the Director of the California Teacher Residency Lab at the CDE Foundation since 2020, Dr. Ollison has spearheaded groundbreaking initiatives to redefine teacher residency support across California. Her leadership was instrumental in the 2021 redesign of the Teacher Residency Lab's Characteristics and Evidence of an Effective California Teacher Residency Programs, embedding equity and justice within the fabric of teacher residency programs. This visionary work has informed state-funded residency grant applications and fostered a culture of inclusivity and resilience among preparers of preservice teachers of color.
Dr. Ollison's expertise extends beyond the residency lab. She is a respected instructor at the UC Merced Extension Teacher Preparation Program and served as an Adjunct Professor at Benerd College, University of the Pacific. Here, she has shaped future educators and leaders by focusing on culturally responsive teaching methods and educational leadership.
Her tenure with the California Department of Education, Office of the Chief Deputy, further underscores her influence in educational policy development and advocacy for educational equity. Dr. Ollison's efforts have led to substantial reforms in school climate, working conditions, and educational policies statewide, impacting countless educators and students.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Dr. Ollison contributes her voice and expertise to Safe Black Space and the Torlakson Whole Child Institute as a board member, advocating for healing from racial trauma and holistic community solutions to educational challenges.
Her personal journey, marked by a transition from classroom teaching due to compassion fatigue, informs her advocacy for viewing educators as first responders deserving of support and reverence. Dr. Ollison's insights on this topic have not only been shared on the TEDx stage but have also resonated with a wide audience through her publications and keynote speeches.
Residing in Northern California with her family and beloved dog, Séo, Dr. Ollison continues to inspire change and foster environments where educators and students alike can thrive and achieve their fullest potential. Her pronouns are she/her/hers.
