Policy and Compliance Specialist

New Orleans, LA
Communication and Community Affairs - Central Office – Communications and Community Affairs /
Full-time /
On-site
NOLA Public Schools Vision
The vision of the NOLA Public Schools is that every student receives a high-quality education that fosters their individual capabilities, while ensuring that they thrive, achieve physical and mental wellness, and are prepared for civic, social, and economic success. 

Position Summary 
The Policy and Compliance Specialist ensures that NOLA Public Schools adheres to all applicable federal, state, and local laws, board policies, and district procedures. This position plays a critical role in reviewing, drafting, updating, and monitoring policies while supporting regulatory compliance efforts across departments. The specialist also provides training and guidance to staff on policy implementation, compliance best practices, and risk mitigation.

Reports to: Chief of Staff
Salary Range: $60,400- $89,485
Classification: Full-time/12-months
Location: Central Office
FLSA Status: Exempt

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

    • Research, analyze, and interpret applicable education laws, regulations, and policies at the local, state, and federal levels;
    • Draft, revise, and maintain district-wide policies, administrative procedures, and related documentation to ensure accuracy, clarity, and alignment with legal requirements and district goals;
    • Coordinate and support the policy review and approval process, including collaboration with legal counsel, executive leadership, and the Orleans Parish School Board;
    • Monitor compliance with district policies and external regulations; conduct audits and internal reviews as needed;
    • Serve as a subject matter expert and provide guidance to departments on compliance-related matters;
    • Investigate and report on potential compliance issues, risks, or policy violations; recommend corrective actions and process improvements;
    • Develop and deliver policy and compliance-related trainings, resources, and communications for staff at all levels;
    • Track legislative and regulatory developments impacting public education and advise leadership on potential implications;
    • Maintain organized and up-to-date records of policies, compliance documentation, and related materials; and
    • Perform other duties as required.

Education and Experience

    • Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy, Law, Education, Public Administration, or related field (Master’s degree or JD preferred).
    • Minimum of 5 years of experience in policy development, regulatory compliance, or legal analysis, preferably in an education or government setting.
    • Experience drafting formal policy documents, interpreting legal or regulatory language, and managing compliance frameworks.

Knowledge, Skills or Abilities Required

    • Strong understanding of education laws, public policy, and governance, particularly in Louisiana and charter school systems.
    • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex legal or technical information into clear, actionable guidance.
    • High level of organization and attention to detail.
    • Ability to analyze data, identify trends, and propose evidence-based solutions.
    • Skilled in handling sensitive information with discretion and professionalism.
    • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and document management systems.
    • Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills to work across departments and with external partners.
$60,400 - $89,485 a year
Salaries are determined by educational background and/or relevant years of experience.

Work Environment
Listed below are key points regarding environmental demands and the work environment of the job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.   
- Required to use motor coordination with finger dexterity (such as keyboarding, machine operation, etc.) part of the workday; 
- Required to exert physical effort in handling objects more than 30 pounds rarely; 
- Required to be exposed to physical occupational risks (such as cuts, burns, exposure to toxic chemicals) rarely; 
- Required to be exposed to physical environment which involves dirt, odors, noise, weather extremes or similar elements rarely; 
- Normal setting for this job is an office/school setting.     

Performance Evaluation
The employee will be evaluated based on the above position using either two methods: via COMPASS or a NOLA-PS evaluating instrument. If the employee holds an Educational Leadership certification, he/she will be evaluated via COMPASS to ensure renewal of certification.

EEOC Statement
NOLA Public Schools is committed to equal employment opportunities regardless of race, color, genetic information, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, lawful alien status, national origin, age, marital status, and non-job related physical or mental disability, or protected veteran status.