Jillayne T. Flanders

"Timothy Mills
Board of Directors
Center for Educational Improvement (CEI)
Tmstrategy78@gmail.com
15 April 2025

Greetings!

It is my pleasure to write this letter of recommendation for Jillayne Flanders, Executive Director of the Center for Educational Improvement (CEI). As a member of CEI’s Board of Directors, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with Jillayne and have seen firsthand the skill, dedication, and integrity she brings to this critically important role.

Jillayne has been instrumental in leading CEI’s work in partnership with Yale University, overseeing a $10 million grant initiative aimed at improving K–12 education. Her strategic leadership and commitment to impact have ensured the success of this high-stakes, high-impact project—helping to bring meaningful change to schools and students across the country in a very difficult volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous political environment.

Jillayne exemplifies servant leadership. She works in true partnership with the Board, valuing collaboration and open dialogue. She has built strong, trusted relationships across the organization, always placing the mission first and ensuring that every voice is heard.

Under her direction, CEI has launched innovative programs focused on yoga and mindfulness for young children. This initiative has improved students’ ability to self-regulate and enhanced their academic and social outcomes. Jillayne’s ability to turn research-based ideas into practical, real-world solutions is a testament to her leadership and dedication to educational improvement for underserved school-aged children.

She is also an exceptional management executive. Jillayne manages CEI’s finances with precision and transparency, ensuring the organization remains fiscally sound and fully accountable to its stakeholders. Her attention to detail and ethical approach to leadership are unmatched.

I highly recommend Jillayne for any executive management position. She is a consummate team player, a strategic thinker, and a proven senior leader. Any organization would benefit from her vision, experience, and dedication.

Sincerely,
Timothy Mills
Board Member, Center for Educational Improvement"