Director of Academic Excellence & Advanced Programs

Position: Director of Academic Excellence & Advanced Programs

Department: Educational Services

Wage/Hour Status:   Exempt

Immediate Supervisor(s): Deputy Superintendent for Educational Services       

Pay Grade:   Per Compensation Manual 

Days Employed: Per Compensation Manual 

POSITION SUMMARY:  

• Provide comprehensive leadership for district-wide advanced academic programs for grades K-12
• Lead the development, implementation, and evaluation of STEAM, GT, Advanced Placement, Dual Credit, and AVID initiatives to ensure academic excellence and equity across all student populations

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education/Certification:

• Master's degree in educational administration from an accredited college or university
• Texas principal certification
• Gifted and Talented certification or GT training (30 hours)
• AVID District Leadership training or willingness to attend training after hire
• Curriculum and instruction experience at the district level (preferred)

Special Knowledge/Skills:

• Comprehensive understanding of curriculum development, instructional best practices, and assessment
• Strong background in data analysis and program evaluation
• Strong knowledge of advanced academic programs, gifted and talented education, and STEAM
• Experience in developing and implementing professional development
• Knowledge of state and federal education requirements and accountability systems
• Excellence in project management and organizational leadership
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to build collaborative relationships
• Effective coaching, problem-solving, and conferencing skills
• Experience with educational technology integration and digital learning platforms

Experience:

• Minimum of 3 years campus administration experience
• Experience coordinating advanced academic programs (preferred)
• Curriculum and instruction experience at the district level (preferred)

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES & DUTIES: 

Program Leadership & Implementation:

• Lead development and implementation of advanced learning pathways from elementary through high school
• Oversee GT program implementation, including identification process and services
• Supervise Advanced Placement programs and vertical team development
• Coordinate STEAM initiatives and ensure integration across content areas
• Manage AVID implementation and serve as District Director
• Support and monitor the implementation of the STEAM Academy at appropriate grade levels
• Coordinate vertical alignment of advanced academic programs across grade levels

Assessment & Data Analysis:

• Analyze student performance data to guide program improvements
• Disaggregate PSAT 8/9, PSAT, SAT, ACT, and Advanced Placement scores
• Monitor assessment results and develop action plans
• Evaluate program effectiveness and make recommendations for improvements
• Ensure compliance with state and federal testing requirements

Professional Development:

• Design and implement professional development for advanced academic programs
• Coordinate training for specialized programs (GT, AP, STEAM, AVID)
• Lead professional learning communities focused on advanced academics
• Ensure high school teachers have the necessary training to improve PSAT, SAT, and ACT scores

Program Management:

• Manage department budget and resources
• Ensure accurate PEIMS reporting for all programs
• Develop and maintain program handbooks and documentation
• Update and distribute GT Handbook and parent brochures annually
• Foster parent and community engagement through advisory committees
• Maintain partnerships with colleges and universities for dual credit programs
• Coordinate academic competitions and enrichment programs

Other Responsibilities:

• Stay current with changes in state and federal regulations
• Participate in local, regional, and state organizations
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Deputy Superintendent for Educational Services

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Mental Demands:

• Maintain emotional control under stress
• Work with frequent interruptions
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Analyze and interpret complex data

Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:

• Standard office equipment, including computer and peripherals
• Frequent walking, standing, and sitting
• Light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds)
• Work inside and outside with exposure to weather conditions
• Occasional prolonged and irregular hours

Professional Dress:

• Dress must be clean, neat, in a manner appropriate for assignment, and in accordance with standards established by the supervisor and approved by the Superintendent

EVALUATION

• Performance of this position will be evaluated annually