Assistant Superintendent

ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT FOR SYSTEMS AND OPERATIONS

POSITION SUMMARY
The Assistant Superintendent for Systems and Operations is a key member of the Senior Leadership Team at SAU 16 and oversees critical operational areas including transportation, food services, technology, and facilities. While day-to-day operations are managed by department directors, the Assistant Superintendent ensures alignment with the SAU’s educational goals, long-term vision, and regulatory requirements. This role also leads the SAU's efforts in monitoring and shaping policy with the SAU 16 Policy Committee in accordance with state, federal, and local regulations. The Assistant Superintendent will also serve as a designee to one or more local school boards, representing SAU 16 leadership in various capacities.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

1. Policy and Legislation:

• Lead the SAU's efforts in providing staffing support to the SAU 16 Policy Committee by monitoring and shaping policy in accordance with state, federal, and local regulations.
• Provide high-level guidance to department directors and the school board on the implications of policy changes, ensuring alignment with SAU goals.
• Oversee the strategic planning of policy initiatives and work with the school board and administrators to develop and propose new policies or revisions.
• Act as a resource for SAU and district leaders and the boards on legislative matters, offering recommendations for adapting operations to evolving laws and regulations.

2. Leadership in Transportation:

• Provide strategic oversight, supervision and direction to the Transportation Coordinator, ensuring that services align with the SAU’s educational goals and policies.
• Work with the coordinator to evaluate and optimize transportation logistics, routes, and budgeting processes, with a focus on safety, efficiency, and student experience.
• Lead efforts to address SAU-wide transportation challenges, including system upgrades, regulatory compliance, and stakeholder communication.
• Represent the SAU in matters related to transportation, working with external vendors, partners, local authorities, and community members when necessary.

3. Leadership in Food Services:

• Provide strategic oversight and direction, in partnership with the school principals, to the Directors of Food Services throughout the SAU to ensure that meal programs meet the nutritional, health, and financial needs of the district’s students.
• Provide strategic guidance on program development, including cost management, meal quality, and compliance with state and federal guidelines.
• Lead district efforts to enhance meal services, making sure that food programs align with the district’s wellness policies and educational goals.
• Work with the directors to evaluate opportunities for expanding or improving food service offerings, particularly in areas such as nutrition education and sustainability.

4. Leadership in Technology:

• Provide strategic oversight, supervision and direction to the Director of Technology in the development and implementation of the SAU’s digital strategy, ensuring that technology systems, infrastructure, and resources support both administrative functions and educational objectives.
• Ensure that the SAU's technology initiatives support classroom learning, staff development, and operational efficiency.
• Collaborate with the director on the strategic vision for technology integration, including long-term planning for hardware, software, digital tools, and cybersecurity measures.
• Foster an environment where innovation in education technology is embraced, supporting staff in the use of technology to improve student outcomes.

5. Leadership in Facilities:

• Provide strategic oversight, supervision and direction to the Director of Facilities in managing the SAU’s physical infrastructure, ensuring that facilities are safe, functional, and conducive to learning.
• Lead the SAU’s long-term planning for facility improvements, repairs, and new construction, working closely with architects, contractors, and external agencies.
• Oversee the strategic allocation of resources to maintain district buildings and grounds, ensuring alignment with the district’s educational priorities.
• Ensure that facility management meets all health, safety, and regulatory requirements, while also promoting sustainability and energy efficiency in the district’s buildings.

6. Superintendent Designee:

• Serve as the Superintendent’s designee to one or more districts and local school boards, attending school board meetings, administrative meetings, and other district functions on behalf of the Superintendent.
• Actively represent the SAU’s interests, ensuring smooth operations and continuity in decision-making and communication.
• Provide leadership during emergencies or crises, collaborating with other administrators to ensure district and SAU stability.
• Facilitate the execution of decisions made by the Superintendent and school board, providing clarity and direction for the leadership team.

ADDITIONAL DUTIES
Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Superintendent.
Note: The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities. It is not meant to be all inclusive of every task or responsibility.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• In-depth knowledge of educational policies, regulations, and legislation affecting K-12 school districts.
• Extensive understanding of operational areas such as transportation, food services, technology, and facilities management within a school setting.
• Knowledge of best practices in leadership, budget management, and strategic planning in a large educational organization.
• Familiarity with federal, state, and local laws regarding education, student safety, and district/SAU operations.
• Strong leadership skills, with the ability to manage and inspire teams, set priorities, and implement initiatives effectively.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to clearly articulate complex ideas to a wide variety of stakeholders, including the school board, administrators, staff, and community members.
• Analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to assess complex situations, identify issues, and implement solutions that meet both short-term and long-term goals.
• Skilled in financial management, including budget development, fiscal oversight, and cost management across multiple departments.
• Ability to lead and manage multiple departments simultaneously, ensuring that each area functions efficiently and contributes to the overall success of the SAU.
• Ability to foster collaboration across departments and stakeholders to implement SAU-wide initiatives and policies.
• Ability to build relationships and trust with internal and external stakeholders, including school board members, community leaders, parents, and staff.
• Ability to adapt to changing educational landscapes and legislative shifts, ensuring the SAU remains compliant and forward-thinking in its operations.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Master’s degree in Educational Administration, Leadership, or a related field (Doctorate preferred).
• Valid NH Superintendent certification.
• Minimum of 5 years of senior-level administrative experience in K-12 education, with proven leadership in managing operations across multiple departments.

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL DEMANDS, WORK HAZARDS
Physical ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined above, in addition to the following: While performing the duties of this position, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, and sit. The employee is regularly required to see, talk, and hear. The employee is regularly required to use hands to manipulate, handle, or feel. The employee is regularly required to reach with hands and arms, stoop, kneel, or crouch. Employee must occasionally move equipment and/or supplies. The job is performed for the most part in an office or school setting with occasional outside weather conditions. The noise level is that of a typical school. Mental demands requiring decision making, analytical and organizational skills in order to achieve work objectives, draw daily operational conclusions, solve practical problems, use computer technology and to present information for use by administration in making decisions.

SAU 16 is committed to providing a supportive work environment for all employees. Accommodations may be available for individuals with disabilities or other needs to ensure a safe and inclusive work environment. If you require accommodations to participate in the application process or perform the essential functions of the job, please contact SAU 16 Human Resources at 603.775.8400 to engage in an interactive process.