Dallas ISD’s Risk Management Department explained

Dallas - During her nearly 10-year career with the Dallas Independent School District (Dallas ISD), Dena Dutchover has risen to a key position as a coordinator in the Risk Management Department, which falls under the umbrella of Financial Services. According to Dallas Metro News, her role involves identifying and proactively mitigating a wide range of operational risks that could negatively impact the district's functioning.

The Risk Management Department plays a crucial role in the smooth operation of Dallas ISD, responsible for more than just identifying risks. The team is tasked with thoroughly evaluating, effectively managing, and consistently monitoring various kinds of operational risks. Dutchover's responsibilities are equally broad, including areas such as unemployment claims processed through the Texas Workforce Commission, vendor insurance details, and the oversight of driving safety measures.

In addition to financial and operational matters, the Risk Management team also oversees a diverse set of concerns including cybersecurity, workers' compensation, athletic programs, and property insurance. This comprehensive approach reflects the team's dedication to protecting not just the district's physical and financial assets, but also its employees and intellectual property.

A strong proponent of proactive safety, Dena Dutchover has spent the majority of her tenure focusing on fire safety initiatives throughout the district. Working closely with the Campus Safety Team, School Leadership, and other related departments, she organizes regular training on fire drill procedures and consistently checks for compliance. This ensures that fire safety remains a top priority across the district.

“When you’re in a role in education, you’re there for a reason,” Dutchover said. “You’re there to make a difference, and it has been incredible to work with so many people and see all the effects our work is having across the city.”

One of the standout moments in Dena Dutchover's career with the Dallas Independent School District was her relentless response in the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. Faced with a surge in unemployment claims, Dutchover had to sift through a maze of misinformation that often confused claimants trying to access vital resources and support. The urgency of the situation led her to work until 2:30 a.m. on multiple occasions, tackling a significant backlog of more than 75 claims awaiting processing.

“It was back to back, and it was like that for months. I was really pushing myself when it came to my work, but I was determined to do it. It was my success story,” Dutchover said.

Her unwavering commitment to her work goes beyond mere professional duty; it's deeply embedded in a family tradition of advocating for education. Coming from a long line of educators, Dutchover sees her role not just as a job, but as a moral obligation to help students succeed. She speaks passionately about the fulfillment she gains from her diverse role, highlighting the collaborative relationships she enjoys with her team and colleagues across various departments as a continual source of professional satisfaction.

“It takes a village, so to anyone in the district, just know that we are thankful for having those partnerships because they are important,” she said. “My team is a whole other family. I don’t want to get teary-eyed, but we spend the majority of our waking hours at work, so it’s super important to be happy with the people you’re around. A smile is contagious, and they’re easy to find with a team like this one.”

To learn more about the work the Risk Management team is doing, click this link.

Content credit: Dallas Metro News, Dallas Independent School District