Grace Epler

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT GRACE EPLER

My career started as a kindergarten teacher in Memphis, TN where I saw firsthand the brilliance, joy, and creativity of our students. It’s also where I experienced the impact of poorly implemented policy designed in a vacuum, as opposed to with and for those on the ground. This experience kickstarted my career in education and sparked my desire to lead systems change work that’s focused on people and driven by a commitment to equity. In my current role as the Director of Professional Learning for Education First Consulting, I lead the strategy, design, and implementation of a comprehensive learning program that promotes team member growth, enhances skills, and drives organizational improvement. Through this work I lead cross-functional team to enhance processes and optimize organizational effectiveness. Prior to my current role, I was a consultant who focused on strategic planning, district-higher ed partnerships, impactful grantmaking, and convening design, all in service of improving long-term student outcomes. And before that, I designed charter school accountability policy for Memphis-Shelby County Schools.I hold an Ed.M in Education Policy and Management from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Through collaboration with school districts, foundations, nonprofits, and state government agencies, I’ve used stakeholder engagement and strategic planning to move education systems toward more equitable outcomes for students.When I’m not focused on strategy and systems improvement, you’ll find me pushing my son on the swing or enjoying a nice cocktail on the patio with my husband.