Debbie Palacios

Background

About Debbie Palacios

Debbie is originally from Miami Beach, Florida, a proud product of Miami-Dade County Public Schools graduating as Valedictorian of Miami Beach Senior High School in 2001 (her Mom insisted she include this in her bio). She earned her Bachelor’s Degree (Double-major in Cultural Theory and Developmental Psychology) from Duke University and two Master’s Degrees in Elementary Education and Educational Policy & Leadership from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. As a first-generation U.S. citizen, the importance of educational opportunity has been at the forefront of her personal and professional journey. As the daughter of Peruvian immigrants, her parents stressed the importance of education as a pathway to any goals she wished to achieve. Their perseverance and sacrifice continues to be a driving force. Through Teach for America, Debbie began her career in the Clark County School District (CCSD) in 2005. She has held positions as a teacher, English Language Learner Specialist, Learning Strategist, Title I Facilitator, and Coordinator, prior to becoming the Director of Family and Community Engagement Services (FACES) in 2019. She currently serves as the Executive Director of Communities in Schools of Southern Nevada, allowing her to continue the work that directly impacts schools, increasing access for all students and improving outcomes for our kids. Debbie has a passion for resource coordination, data, grant writing, community outreach, and technology – all aimed at advocating for children, empowering and supporting families, and increasing student achievement. She is the proud mother of two CCSD students and wife to a CCSD educator. Above all, Debbie wholeheartedly subscribes to the notion of #collectiveimpact. The collective impact is greater than the individual parts. She believes we must capitalize on our strengths and funds of knowledge and work together as we relentlessly pursue the success of all children.