• Howe Brings Over 20 Years of Experience in Human Resources, Including With Bayer & Girl Scouts of the USA
• Redesigned Role Will Emphasize the Network’s Ongoing Commitment to Equity

Great Oaks Legacy Charter School (GOLCS), a high performing Newark-based public charter school system, just announced it has appointed Nichelle Howe as Chief People & Equity Officer. In this newly-designed role, Howe will oversee and lead human resources, hiring, and staff engagement. She will be responsible for both the people initiatives at GOLCS as well as the network’s ongoing commitment to equity.

Over the course of her career, Howe has led people and equity-centered initiatives at a variety of companies and institutions, including most recently with the Girl Scouts of the USA. There, she served as Senior Director for Council Talent Consulting, where she developed talent management strategies. Her work included managing workforce planning, talent development, diversity and inclusion and equal employment opportunities. She has also previously held a number of senior HR positions at Bayer, the multinational biotech company, and was an HR Manager at De La Rue, who design and produce banknotes.

“I am thrilled to join GOLCS and take the lead on managing and creating additional equitable policies that support and uplift teachers,” said Howe. “I have always felt a strong call to organizations that are mission driven and passionate about making a difference. I grew up in New Jersey, and I’m excited to join a great team so close to home.”

“Nichelle is a proven leader in managing and developing people policies with a particular emphasis on equity and diversity,” shared Jared Taillefer, Executive Director at Great Oaks Legacy Charter School. “In order for our students to receive the best possible education, our teachers must have their needs met and know that their voice is being heard. Nichelle’s expertise will help to further bolster our people-first and equitable community. I would also like to thank Leslie Wade, who served as the Interim Chief People Officer as we searched for the best possible candidate to permanently fill the position.”

About Great Oaks Legacy Charter School
Great Oaks Legacy Charter School is an open-enrollment, tuition-free, PK4 through grade 12, public charter school system with campuses across Newark, New Jersey, where college matriculation rates historically have been low. We give our students the academic skills and socio-emotional support they need to build upon their own strengths and abilities so that they are ready and able to achieve their dreams. We bridge the educational opportunity gap by setting rigorous expectations within a framework of individualized support and a community committed to supporting equity and celebrating diversity. We are dedicated to preparing all of our students for success in college, careers, and life. Our track record of student achievement proves our belief that life-changing transformation happens when preparedness and readiness meet opportunity. For more information, visit greatoakslegacy.org or follow us on Facebook.

This is a press release.