Jane D. Ehrenfeld

Supervise the work of the Title IX team within the Policy Legal Group (PLG). Assign, advise on, and review all written work products, including: policy documents, OCR guidance, fact sheets and FAQ publications, litigation briefs, responses to Congressional inquiries and questions from the public, draft legislation, federal policy documents being distributed for inter- and intra-agency clearance, talking points for front office appointees, and responses to media requests. Work closely with the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy and DOJ attorneys on all aspects of the Title IX portfolio. Responsible for building team cohesion, supporting the professional growth of the Title IX staff, and serving as a trusted colleague and mentor to every member of the team. Serve as an integral part of the PLG senior leadership team, and collaborate with the leadership team and the PLG Director to guide OCR’s policy work and ensure that PLG is operating effectively and efficiently.

Embedded attorney with the Office of Equal Rights (Internal Civil Rights Division) and the Office of Disability Integration and Coordination. Advised senior leadership on complex matters related to equal employment opportunity and reasonable accommodation, as well as disaster planning with respect to individuals with disabilities. Created and gave trainings on EEO laws, including the new Pregnant Workers’ Fairness Act regulations. Participated on the clients’ senior leadership teams. Advised and supported as needed within the Office of Chief Counsel as their internal expert on EEO, reasonable accommodations, and disability integration and coordination before, during, and after disasters. Received rating of “Achieved Excellence” on annual review for 2023.

Ran the Department of Fair Practices, which was comprised of three units: Staff Investigations, Equal Educational/Employment Opportunity, and Minority- and Women-Owned Business Enterprises. Worked closely with the Department of Labor and Employee Relations and the district’s Ombudsperson to facilitate the resolution of individual and group conflicts related to EEO and staff misconduct complaints. Designed and implemented the procedures for processing over 1,400 COVID-related ADA requests during school year 2020-2021, ensured racial equity in the program, and successfully managed every element of the system in order to meet the diverse (and sometimes opposing) needs of the employees and students of the district. Directed the high-stakes investigation of a complex harassment and discrimination matter involving dozens of staff and students at a City Schools high school, which resulted in school- and system-wide remedies. Analyzed technical and sensitive policy issues related to EEO, identifying trends, and presenting policy recommendations; designed and led training on technical and sensitive issues for management and over 1,400 employees. Received superlative ratings on all performance reviews.

Enforced civil rights laws pertaining to race, sex, and disability in federally funded schools at every level from PreK to graduate school. Investigated complaints, negotiated and monitored resolution agreements, mediated disputes, oversaw the team conducting a comprehensive compliance review, and provided presentations on laws enforced by OCR for a wide range of stakeholders, school districts, colleges and universities. Received the highest possible rating on the FY2013 annual performance review.

Wrote memoranda on cases before the court and assisted the judge with preparation for oral arguments. Researched topics in administrative, employment, and criminal law. Supported drafting of opinions.