The Ombuds Outlook: Perspectives in Practice

In this episode, I’m joined by Regina Earls, Assistant Ombuds from the Austin Independent School District to conclude our exploration of the unique position Ombuds hold, one foot inside the system and one just outside of it. We’re deeply informed, yet independent. Close enough to understand how systems work, but far enough to remain neutral. We explore how that inside-outside perspective helps Ombuds listen deeply, spot patterns, and support people navigating conflict, communication challenges, and complex situations in schools.

In this episode, I’m joined by Regina Earls,  Assistant Ombuds from the Austin Independent School District to explore the unique position Ombuds hold, one foot inside the system and one just outside of it. We’re deeply informed, yet independent. Close enough to understand how systems work, but far enough to remain neutral. We explore how that inside-outside perspective helps Ombuds listen deeply, spot patterns, and support people navigating conflict, communication challenges, and complex situations in schools.

In this, the Part 2 of Episode of 1, Carey and I talk about conflict as opportunity, what happens when issues are ignored versus surfaced, and understanding that conflict does not always require immediate resolution.

As Ombuds, we spend most days listening and helping people see that conflict isn’t just something to survive, but something from which to learn.   In this episode, I am joined by a fellow K-12 Ombuds practitioner Carey Williams from Loudoun County Public Schools for an honest conversation about who Ombuds are, what we do, why this role matters and how it shows up in real, human moments.

In this special edition Part 2 of the Ombuds Outlook, host Maleika Joubert Brown is joined by guests Koleta Moore and Tari Macias from the Office of Opportunity, Engagement, and Innovation continue to unpack the powerful insights shared by staff across GRPS. Together, they explore the remaining emerging themes around leadership accountability, inclusion, behavior systems, and staff support—surfacing questions for all of us to reflect on as we prepare to work together to strengthen our system. Tune in for a candid conversation about what it means to truly listen, respond, and move from talk to transformation.

Voices and Vision Insights Report

In this special 2 - part edition of the Ombuds Outlook, host Maleika Joubert Brown is joined by guests Koleta Moore and Tari Macias from the Office of Opportunity, Engagement, and Innovation to unpack the powerful insights shared by staff across GRPS. Together, they explore emerging themes around leadership accountability, inclusion, behavior systems, and staff support—surfacing questions for all of us to reflect on as we prepare to work together to strengthen our system. Tune in for a candid conversation about what it means to truly listen, respond, and move from talk to transformation. 

Voices and Vision Insights Report

In this special edition of the Ombuds Outlook, host Maleika Joubert Brown is joined by guests Koleta Moore and Tari Macias from the Office of Opportunity, Engagement, and Innovation to unpack the powerful insights shared by staff across GRPS. Together, they explore emerging themes around leadership accountability, inclusion, behavior systems, and staff support—surfacing questions for all of us to reflect on as we prepare to work together to strengthen our system. Tune in for a candid conversation about what it means to truly listen, respond, and move from talk to transformation.  Voices and Vision Summary Report Linked Here

Episode Transcript Linked Here

This episode explores how effective communication builds trust and connection, moving beyond transactional exchanges to transformational dialogue.