Meet your Newest Board Member

CHRIS HALIFAX

TASPA DISTRICT V REPRESENTATIVE

Chris Halifax is presently the Director of Human Resources for the Abilene Independent School District. Her career in education has spanned over twenty-three years in three different school districts. Before moving to Abilene ISD, she served in Conroe ISD and Birdville ISD. In addition to working in Human Resources, Ms. Halifax has served as a teacher, Advanced Academic Specialist, Instructional Coordinator, and Principal. The opportunity to work in different locations across the state and in various roles has not only been rewarding but afforded great preparation for her current role in Human Resources. Ms. Halifax holds a Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Communication with a minor in General Business Administration from Abilene Christian University. She earned a Master of Education in Administration from Texas Woman’s University.

ADVICE TO THOSE NEW TO HR:

The best advice I would give to those new to HR would be to stay true to characteristics that make a great educator such as flexibility, patience, and grace. Flexibility in terms of being open to ideas and realizing your day may not go as planned. Every day will present new opportunities for learning and growth. When a problem is presented it may seem that there is one solution; however, as the story develops what you once thought to be true may take a whole different direction. In HR we work with hard topics and circumstances that require growth for the employee. Humans are complicated, unique and passionate. Managing human capital requires serving as encouragers and finding the good in others through patience and extending grace. We must not lose sight of the “heart” while working within local, state, and federal legal guidelines.

CURRENT CHALLENGES IN YOUR DISTRICT?:

It goes without saying, the pandemic has changed our world in numerous ways. One of the biggest challenges we are facing regarding human resources is staffing. Decreased enrollment impacts funding; therefore, staffing solutions for the future are proving to be a hot topic. We are evaluating our current puzzle pieces to find a fit that provides the best instruction for students while staying fiscally responsible.

HOW HAS TASPA BENEFITED YOU?:

I would say the ability to network with other Human Resource professionals is the greatest benefit as a member of TASPA. The knowledge and education gained from TASPA meetings, conferences and webinars through peers cannot be measured for its immense value. While TASPA is a large organization with many members, the support and encouragement are comparable to a familial relationship.