“…it only takes a spark to get a fire going…”
Pass it on – Kurt Kaiser
About Dr. Tom Kelchner
Bio
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From his grandfather to charismatic President John F. Kennedy, Dr. Tom Kelchner takes inspiration from personal and global leaders. The common denominators among his heroes were their altruistic and modestly humble approach to the world. Actions speak louder than words. Dr. Kelchner has shown his belief in big action with big rewards throughout his career.
He is a 33-year veteran of public education with the bulk of that served in Dallas Independent School District. He has worked in nearly every level of education, from a teacher to assistant principal, dean of instruction, principal, and director positions. He has served students at all levels, including elementary, middle, high school, and special education. The heartbeat of his pursuits has always been scholarship and learning.
Dr. Kelchner has served on numerous school, district, and community committees working with students, parents, board trustees, superintendents, executive level management, and community leaders from all walks of life.
In 2016 Dr. Kelchner retired from public education to venture into the educational sales sector. He found more work to be done connecting vital academic service providers to better systems and solutions. Thus, the Empowered Network was born. Dr. Kelchner’s dedication to working smarter, not harder, coupled with his belief in the power of education, blossomed into a network offering of quality systems and software. The Empowered Network has grown to include health, wellness, and financial offerings.
Dr. Kelchner currently lives in Huffman, Texas with his significantly better half, Laura Kelchner, and their beloved dogs, Bentley and Wadu.
CV
Thomas R. Kelchner, Ed.D.
Education
2015 – 2016 Region 4 Aspiring Superintendent’s Academy
2009 Superintendent Certification
2005 Lean Six Sigma Greenbelt
2003 Doctor of Education, Educational Administration, University of North Texas
1993 Master of Education, Educational Administration, University of North Texas
1989 Master of Science, Special Education, University of Texas at Dallas
1978 Bachelor of Science, Physical Education, Texas Christian University
Professional Experience
2017- Present CEO & Founder, Empowered Network
2019 Regional Advocacy Director, Raise Your Hand Texas
2017 Vice President of Business Development, Yellow Folder
2009 Director of Special Education, Goose Creek Consolidated Independent School District
2007 Director, I.D.E.A. Coordination/Specialized Programs, Special Education Department, Dallas Independent School District
2005 Executive Director, Department Operations, Special Education Department, Dallas Independent School District
Professional & Community Service
2021 - 2022 Assistant Governor, Rotary District 5890
Chairman, Board of Directors, East Harris County Navigation Center for the Homeless
Chairman, Board of Directors, Bay Area Rehabilitation Center, Baytown, Texas
Chairman, Board of Directors, Hands of Healing Residential Treatment Center, Baytown, Texas
Advisory Board, Digital Communications Academy, Goose Creek Consolidated Independent School District
Immediate Past President, Board of Directors, Rotary Club of Baytown, Texas
Huffman ISD Citizens Advisory Committee
Member, Huffman-Crosby Chamber of Commerce
Member, Baytown Chamber of Commerce
About Empowered Network
Empowered Network is an easy-access menu for time-strapped professionals, students, parents, and businesses. A superintendent, a department head, a business manager, and a project manager can get solutions alongside a parent, a student, a client, and a patient. It’s cutting-edge programs and services all in one place.
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You don’t have time to be testing software and vetting solutions. That’s where Empowered Network steps in. Select from a variety of high-quality programs and products. Need a customized solution? Empowered Network provides personalized consultations and expert-driven plans that will have you overcoming obstacles and achieving success.
Efficiency saves you money, time, and headaches. Empowered Network strives to connect individuals and businesses with an easy place to find answers. No need to shop around or spend countless hours on Google. Your problems are solved right here by a passionate group of industry leaders led by a service-focused education veteran.
Feel free to explore the Empowered Network website. Also, if you have any questions or need further guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re happy to help.