Title: In Case It Goes to Court: Investigation Protocols as a Strategic Governance Imperative in K-12 Schools
Presenters: Liz DeChellis and Jennifer Doughty
Date: Friday, Dec. 4, 2026
Program: 9:00 a.m. - 10:05 a.m.
Van Dermyden Makus Law Corporation is pleased to announce that Partner Liz DeChellis and Jennifer Doughty will present at the California School Boards Association (CSBA) Annual Education Conference and Trade Show in San Diego, California.
Their session, “In Case It Goes to Court: Investigation Protocols as a Strategic Governance Imperative in K-12 Schools,” will provide school board members and district leaders with practical insights into conducting legally sound, thorough, and defensible workplace investigations and understanding their role in effective governance.
CSBA’s Annual Education Conference and Trade Show will bring together education leaders from across California to explore critical issues affecting public schools, share best practices, and strengthen leadership and governance. Liz DeChellis and Jennifer Doughty will present on Friday, December 4, 2026, from 9:00 to 10:05 a.m.
More About the Session:
Sound governance isn't just about policy "” it's about execution. Most district investigations fall short not because anyone acted in bad faith, but because of procedural gaps that are entirely preventable. Left unaddressed, these gaps create legal exposure that undermines organizational stability and erodes board and community confidence. This session will review common failure points, including documentation and interviewing errors, to equip K-12 administrators with the practical tools and investigative framework needed to conduct investigations that stand up to scrutiny. This session provides the tools necessary for legally defensible investigations, which are not merely a compliance function "” they are a cornerstone of risk management and institutional trust.
Liz DeChellis, AWI-CH, is a Partner with Van Dermyden Makus Law Corporation. Her practice focuses on conducting workplace investigations as well as Title IX investigations and hearings. She is available as an expert in evaluating Title IX and sexual harassment matters. Liz serves as Van Dermyden Makus’ Director of Title IX Services, overseeing all Title IX investigations and hearings.
Jennifer is a Partner with Van Dermyden Makus Law Corporation. As Director of Client Services, Jen oversees the intake and contracting process for our firm. Jen has worked with Van Dermyden Makus since January 2012. Jennifer’s practice focuses on investigations involving the workplace, athletic teams, and Title IX complaints. Jennifer conducts investigations relating to harassment, discrimination, retaliation, and misconduct. She also conducts trainings for staff and management on how to conduct effective workplace investigations. Jennifer also has experience in employment litigation and client counseling.
