Rhonda Shaw

Senior Research Associate, Institute for Intergovernmental Research

Worked as a senior research associate with the Institute for Intergovernmental Research (IIR) and project coordinator with the Bureau of Justice Assistance Student, Teachers, and Officers Preventing (STOP) School Violence Program, in which IIR provides specialized training and technical assistance for law enforcement who work in schools and/or with school age populations. Prior to this position, she worked with the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention’s (OJJDP) Opioid Affected Youth Initiative, in which IIR provides technical assistance in support of more than 30 sites. Experienced Program Advisor with a demonstrated history of working in the education management industry. Served as Program Director for Gang Intervention Focusing on Families & Trauma Supports (GIFFTS) and Wraparound Frayser (WAF), both of which are programs within the Center for Health in Justice Involved Youth. Incorporated trauma-informed resources into an approach to gang intervention and prevention, along with wraparound approach that involves community outreach and engagement. Built relationships with key community stakeholders that share the mission and vision of the work. Spent over twenty years impacting the field of education at district & state levels. Project Advisor for Shelby County Schools where work involved facilitating student service programs for 24 middle schools within Shelby County Schools. These services included gang intervention and prevention through Gang Reduction Assistance Saving Society’s Youth, G.R.A.S.S.Y., which implemented services aligned with the Comprehensive Gang Model. This role provided the opportunity to provide a safe learning environment for the students at the Shelby County School District, as well as an opportunity for community outreach through collaborations with high-yielding partners. Served as a School Improvement Coordinator, as well as served as an Education Consultant for the State of Tennessee Department of Education, guiding twenty-three, West Tennessee School Districts through the process of building educator capacity through targeted, differentiated academic supports resulting in student readiness. A Certified Family Support Specialist, who advocates for children and families to inspire a sense of hope, resiliency and recovery. Enjoys opportunities that allow her to have a positive impact on the community. Currently serves on the Memphis & Shelby County Juvenile Justice Board and the Juvenile Detention Alternative Initiative Committee. Hosts and produces a weekend radio show, Doctor 2 Doctor- In the Chatroom.