Jennifer Tischer
Experienced Director of Student Services with a Proven Track Record of Driving Educational Outcomes
Professional Overview
Jennifer Tischer is an accomplished Director of Student Services with over 20 years of experience in the education and social services sectors. She is skilled in developing and implementing comprehensive student support programs that foster academic achievement, social-emotional well-being, and post-secondary readiness. Tischer's expertise spans student counseling, alternative education, community outreach, and substance abuse prevention.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Director of Student Services at Connections Academy, Tischer oversees the delivery of a wide range of student support services, including academic advising, college and career guidance, mental health counseling, and family engagement. She has been instrumental in expanding the organization's suite of student support offerings and enhancing the overall student experience. Under Tischer's leadership, Connections Academy has seen a significant increase in student retention and post-secondary enrollment rates.
Career Progression
Prior to her current role, Tischer served as a Middle School Counselor at Mount Vernon Community Schools, where she implemented innovative programs to address the social-emotional needs of students. She also held the position of Director at the National Resilience Institute, where she developed and delivered training programs on trauma-informed practices for educators and community organizations. Tischer's earlier roles include Director of Alternative Education and School-Community Liaison at Mount Vernon Community Schools, as well as Prevention Specialist and Assistant Director at the Area Substance Abuse Council.
Academic Background
Tischer holds a Master's degree in Counseling and Human Development from the University of Iowa, where she graduated with distinction. She also earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from John Brown University, with a minor in Coaching.
Areas of Expertise
- Student support program development and implementation
- Academic, college, and career counseling
- Social-emotional learning and mental health interventions
- Substance abuse prevention and intervention
- Community outreach and family engagement
- Trauma-informed practices and resilience-building
Professional Impact
During her tenure at Mount Vernon Community Schools, Tischer spearheaded the creation of a comprehensive alternative education program that significantly improved graduation rates and post-secondary enrollment for at-risk students. She also led the development of a school-based mental health clinic that provided access to critical support services for underserved students and their families.
As the Director of Student Services at Connections Academy, Tischer has been instrumental in driving a 15% increase in student retention and a 20% increase in post-secondary enrollment across the organization's network of virtual schools.
Conclusion
Jennifer Tischer is a visionary leader in the field of student services, with a proven track record of developing and implementing innovative programs that address the diverse needs of students. Her expertise in academic counseling, mental health support, and community engagement has consistently led to improved educational outcomes and enhanced student well-being. Tischer is poised to continue making a significant impact in the education sector, driving positive change and empowering students to reach their full potential.