Dr. Taunya Jaco is an educational leader, consultant, and advocate with over a decade of experience in driving systemic policy reform and advancing equitable learning opportunities. As the Founder & CEO of TransformED Justice Consulting, LLC, she is dedicated to reshaping education through justice-centered leadership, interdisciplinary collaboration, and innovative program development across K-12 and higher education settings.

Throughout her career, Dr. Jaco has spearheaded transformative initiatives that promote culturally responsive curricula, equity-driven leadership, and meaningful community partnerships. As a director for her statewide labor union, she has led regional organizing efforts, designed educator training programs, and guided policy reforms aimed at fostering more inclusive and just learning environments.

Her expertise as an education consultant has enabled her to support school districts in designing student-centered curricula, facilitating impactful professional development, and leveraging digital tools to enhance engagement and achievement. She has also served as a lecturer in critical studies of education policy, mentoring graduate students and leading interdisciplinary research on systemic educational change.

Dr. Jaco’s doctoral research focused on the development of a statewide TK-12 Ethnic Studies model curriculum through documentary filmmaking. Her work has been featured in the Journal of Asian American Studies, and her documentary, Fidelity at the Forefront: The Fight for Ethnic Studies, serves as a vital resource for educators and policymakers nationwide. She has shared her expertise at global forums, including the Congressional Black Caucus Annual Legislative Conference and the Worldwide Forum on Education & Culture, offering insights on equity, leadership, and transformative research methodologies.

With a background in governance as a school board trustee and a National Education Association Board Director, Dr. Jaco remains at the forefront of shaping policies that uplift diverse student communities. Through TransformED Justice Consulting, LLC, she remains dedicated to advancing educational justice and systemic reform, empowering students, educators, and community members to work together in creating solutions that meaningfully and sustainably leverage the strengths of their communities.