SUMMARY
Under executive direction, provides leadership for the full scope of the Equity and School Climate Division including program operations & development, staff management, budget & finance, planning, and community relations.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS — Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This list is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY, and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class. Employees are required to be in attendance and prepared to begin work at their assigned work location on the specified days and hours. Factors such as regular attendance at the job are not routinely listed in job descriptions, but are an essential function. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:
Directs Equity and School Climate programs and operations, and assures compliance with Federal, state and local regulations, policies and procedures.
Directs the development of solutions for issues; monitors and evaluates division work groups, and assures that the services and work products meet quality and safety standards.
Monitors division operations, analyzes operational results, assures the effective allocation and utilization of resources, and develops action plans to meet community needs.
Manages assigned staff, develops priorities, and assigns tasks and projects; assures that appropriate services are provided, and goals are defined and achieved; develops staff skills and conducts performance evaluations; meets regularly with staff to discuss and resolve priorities, workload and technical issues.
Reviews the work of division staff to assure the work quality and timely accomplishment of assigned duties and responsibilities, and compliance with state and Federal regulations and MPS standards.
Directs strategic and contingency planning; monitors implementation of division’s work in the strategic plan.
Works with community leaders to identify program needs and community service improvements.
Directs budgeting procedures and financial management in compliance with agency funding standards; coordinates development of grant funds and reimbursement programs; recommends efficiencies to keep costs within established financial guidelines; analyzes program costs and results.
Reviews and approves the preparation and distribution of technical and financial reports to accurately reflect the operational trends and efficacy of the division’s operations.
Coordinates services with private businesses, government agencies, community organizations and advisory councils; leverages resources, and promotes special programs and services.
Directs the development of long- and short-term plans and policy determinations.
Researches and provides consultation on specific student support issues; develops and presents reports on issues and solutions; coordinates with state and Federal regulatory agencies.
Demonstrates courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with students, clients, visitors, and MPS staff; acts in a manner that promotes a harmonious and effective workplace environment
Serves as a team member of the Superintendent’s Cabinet and Executive Staff; participates in District-wide planning, development, and evaluation.
Enthusiastically promotes the Superintendent’s goals and priorities in compliance with all policies and procedures.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education, Training and Experience Guidelines
Master’s Degree in Education, Social Services, or related field; AND five (5) years of professional experience in public education programs; OR an equivalent combination of education, training and experience as determined by Human Resources.
Knowledge of:
State and Federal laws and regulatory issues governing public education, including rules and regulations of the Minnesota Department of Education and other governing agencies.
Principles and practices of public sector administrative management, including finance, budgeting, purchasing, contract and grant program management, and employee supervision.
Techniques and practices for efficient and cost-effective management of resources.
Local community resources, regional community services programs, and regional training programs.
State and Federal laws governing public sector grant funding programs.
Personal computers using standard software, and specialized MPS and state agency software applications and procedures.
Principles of record keeping, records management, and management of confidential records.
Customer service and public relations methods and practices.
Skill in:
Directing and coordinating division operations and programs.
Interpreting, and applying state and Federal statutes, codes, rules, and regulations.
Reviewing operations and assuring MPS compliance with state and Federal rules and regulations.
Assessing, analyzing, and identifying problems, and recommending effective solutions.
Managing staff, delegating tasks and authority, and coaching to improve staff performance.
Preparing, reviewing, and presenting management reports.
Using initiative and independent judgment within established procedural guidelines.
Providing effective customer service and dealing tactfully and courteously with the public.
Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with co-workers, clients, advocates and representatives from community groups and government agencies.
Communicating effectively verbally and in writing.
LICENSE AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
A valid Minnesota State Driver’s License may be required.
Education Administrator’s license may be required.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT
Work is performed in a standard office environment which requires occasionally lifting such articles as file boxes or heavier materials with help from others and/or lifting and carrying light objects frequently. A job in this category may require walking or standing to a significant degree or may involve sitting most of the time with long periods of computer work and heavy phone usage.