What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director, Leadership Pathways position at District of Columbia Public Schools?
The Office of Schools is responsible for effective management, operation and achievement of schools and provides leadership to principals, administrators, and teachers to ensure academic excellence for all students. A critical aspect of DCPS’ strategy is an investment in people, in all stages of their development. DCPS endeavors to get, grow, and keep its top talent, ensuring all school-based staff have opportunities for development. More specifically, the School Leader Recruitment, Selection, and Development Division within the Office of Schools works across teams and in schools to build the capacity and influence needed to develop and nurture leaders who are committed to equity work in service of students and their families.
The Director, Leadership Pathways is responsible for ensuring that DCPS continues to build comprehensive, aligned leadership pathways that benefit student achievement. This position plays a critical role in cultivating a strong pipeline of effective school leaders by planning, coordinating, and facilitating leadership development programs across the district. This position works collaboratively with internal district offices and external partners to design and implement initiatives that support both aspiring and current school leaders
This position is a safety-sensitive position. As a result, throughout employment this position will be subject to the Employee Mandatory Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy.The Director, Leadership Pathways will report to the Deputy Chief, School Leader Recruitment, Selection, and Development.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
The below statements are intended to describe the general nature and scope of work being performed by this position. This is not a complete listing of all responsibilities, duties, and/or skills required. Other duties may be assigned.
Builds strong cross-departmental relationships and sustaining deep partnerships with external stakeholders and organizations. Ensuring high quality professional learning experiences to build the capacity of aspiring and current school leaders
Establishes systems and structures to support the visioning and strategic planning of leadership development initiatives
Continuously assesses the progress of leadership development offerings through ongoing critical reflection with district offices and school leaders
Leads strategic planning across multiple programs, setting clear performance goals and aligning staff work to priorities.
Monitors program progress, resolves complex challenges, and adapts strategy in response to policy or regulatory changes
Assesses talent needs and supports recruitment and selection processes for school leaders
Designing and providing professional development including facilitation of professional learning communities, coaching, and consulting, with prioritized support of school leaders preparing for advancement
Establishes effective operational and project management practices, including resource allocation.
- Oversees data collection and analysis for reporting and evaluation of program effectiveness.
Maintains awareness of district-wide initiatives and adjusts departmental strategies to align with shifting priorities.
Stays informed on policy, research, and innovation, advising senior leadership on relevant developments.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree and 5 to 7 years of related work experience.
- Master's degree preferred.
- Previous exposure to or experience in the education sector a plus.
- Previous school leadership preferred and experience in the education sector a plus.
- Strong dedication to working with an equity-centered, students-first mindset.
- Previous experience in project management preferred.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills.
- Strong organizational skills, including keen attention to detail and the ability to adhere to strict deadlines.
- Outstanding interpersonal, teamwork, and management skills.
DCPS Values
- STUDENTS FIRST: We recognize students as whole children and put their needs first in everything we do.
- COURAGE: We have the audacity to learn from our successes and failures, to try new things, and to lead the nation as a proof point of PK-12 success.
- EQUITY: We work proactively to eliminate opportunity gaps by interrupting institutional bias and investing in effective strategies to ensure every student succeeds.
- EXCELLENCE: We work with integrity and hold ourselves accountable for exemplary outcomes, service, and interactions.
- TEAMWORK: We recognize that our greatest asset is our collective vision and ability to work collaboratively and authentically.
- JOY: We enjoy our collective work and will enthusiastically celebrate our success and each other.
We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to creating an inclusive, accessible workplace. We welcome and encourage applications from individuals with disabilities. Accommodation and/or application assistance is available upon request at all stages of the application and employment process. To request accommodation, please contact dcps.eeo-ada@k12.dc.gov.
Salary : $115,320 - $130,146