SY 26-27 District Data Specialist

District Data Specialist

Position Overview

The District Data Specialist oversees and manages all aspects of district-wide student and staff data collection, maintenance, and reporting. This position serves as the lead administrator for the Student Information System (Aspen) and ensures the accuracy, integrity, and compliant use of data to support educational, operational, and accountability needs. The District Data Specialist collaborates with the Enrollment Department for grades PreK–8, manages district-supported databases, and coordinates with multiple departments to ensure effective data systems, reporting, and integration across the district.

Qualifications:

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in information systems, education, data management, or a related field.
• Proficiency in student information systems (e.g., Aspen, PowerSchool, or equivalent) and data visualization tools (e.g., Excel, Open Architects, Clever, or equivalent).
• Experience managing large data sets, reporting, and performing data analysis.
• Strong understanding of state and federal reporting requirements (e.g., DESE data collections).
• Familiarity with data privacy laws and best practices (FERPA, COPPA, PPRA).
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills with strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Effective communication and presentation skills; ability to train and support staff at varying technical levels.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate effectively with staff, administrators, and families.

Preferred:

• Master’s degree in information systems, education, data management, or a related field.
• Knowledge of Massachusetts DESE reporting systems (e.g., SIMS, EPIMS, SCS, SSDR) or equivalent state education data systems.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Student Information System (Aspen) and Data Management

• Oversee and serve as the district lead for all student and staff data collection processes and the appropriate use of Aspen.
• Maintain and support all internal student information management functions.
• Serve as the Aspen system administrator and account lead, including user setup, permissions, and maintenance.
• Integrate the Student Information System (SIS) with other platforms; design reports, dashboards, and data extracts.
• Identify, implement, and support district-wide database and reporting solutions.
• Ensure the accuracy and integrity of student and staff data; develop and facilitate staff training to improve data entry and reporting practices.
• Develop and assist with training materials and sessions; provide training and resources to new and existing users as needed.
• Visit schools to provide training, troubleshoot data issues, and support user needs.
• Respond to and manage internal and external data requests.
• Prepare and distribute monthly and ad hoc data reports.
  Ensure all data exchanges and integrations comply with FERPA, COPPA, and PPRA; communicate with external partners as necessary.

State and Federal Reporting

• Serve as the district’s primary contact with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).
• Process and maintain all required state and federal reports, ensuring data accuracy and compliance.
• Support DESE data collections, including, but not limited to, SIMS, EPIMS, SCS, SSDR, SAC, CRDC, and EEO-5.
  Analyze DESE reports and correct data submission errors in collaboration with school and district staff.
• Attend DESE-hosted meetings and trainings related to data collection and reporting.

District Systems Integration and Support

• Support data integration and reporting for all curriculum-based assessments, digital platforms, and instructional tools.
• Assist with managing user accounts in various systems to ensure appropriate access to district-supported platforms.
• Collaborate with instructional coaches and curriculum directors to support the development and implementation of digital education products.
• Support the development and implementation of new and existing systems, including but not limited to:
• • Student Information System (SIS)
  • Learning Management System (LMS)
  • Data Warehouse
  • Other district data systems

• Maintaining accurate enrollment data and records.
• Collaborate with the Student Assignment Officer and Transportation Coordinator to align data and services.
• Provide oversight and technical support for the annual rollover and creation of school master schedules.
• Provide oversight and technical support for the rollover of curricular resources for the annual student rostering through the district platform.
• Collaborate with Human Resources to ensure accurate employee data and support the Business Office with necessary reports.

Performance Indicators:

• Timeliness and accuracy of data reporting and state submissions.
• Data quality and system reliability across district schools.
• Effectiveness of data presentations and decision-support tools for administrators.
• Responsiveness and support to schools regarding data-related needs.

Competitive and comprehensive health benefits are offered through the City of Fitchburg; www.fitchburgma.gov/benefits.

An offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of NCBC (fingerprinting) and CORI before your start of employment.

The responsibilities and duties listed are illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position. The information contained in this job description is for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and is not an exhaustive list of the duties performed for this position. Additional duties may be assigned as required.

Notice of Non-Discrimination

The School Committee’s policy of nondiscrimination extends to students, employees, and the general public with whom it does business. Fitchburg Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, or disability in admission to, access to, employment in, or equal treatment in its programs and/or activities in compliance with state and federal law.

Questions related to this policy must be addressed to: The Office of Human Resources, 376 South Street, Fitchburg, MA 01420, HR@Fitchburg.k12.ma.us