Matt Palaoro

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT MATT PALAORO

From paraprofessional to Chief Student Success Officer, my career has been grounded in a deep and personal commitment to supporting students with disabilities and ensuring every learner thrives. I began my journey in education as a special education paraprofessional, where I quickly discovered a calling to advocate for and support students with unique learning needs. That passion has fueled a career that spans the classroom, district-level leadership, and now an executive role shaping systems in service to student outcomes.Today, I proudly serve as the Chief Student Success Officer for Jeffco Public Schools in Colorado, where I lead a team dedicated to supporting the whole child. I oversee departments including Special Education, Gifted & Talented, Health Services, and Student Services—aligning strategy and services to create the conditions every student needs to succeed.With a background in both educational leadership and special education administration, I’ve led large teams, managed multimillion-dollar budgets, navigated complex compliance landscapes, and always kept students at the center. I’ve spearheaded districtwide program evaluations, designed multi-year strategic plans, and led cross-functional efforts to build more coherent, inclusive, and responsive systems of support. Whether supporting systemic change, building inclusive environments, or strengthening partnerships with families and communities, my focus is simple: create conditions where every student feels seen, supported, and celebrated.I\'ve had the honor of serving as the head sponsor for the construction of a new campus for Fletcher Miller School—Jeffco\'s dedicated school for students with the most significant needs—ensuring the building reflects the dignity, care, and excellence our students, staff, and families deserve. Outside of work, I’m a lifelong learner, avid hobbyist, and enthusiastic golfer—always seeking balance, perspective, and connection.