District HR Generalist

Company Description

KIPP Delta Public Schools operates tuition-free, open-enrollment college-preparatory charter schools in the Arkansas Delta, serving over 1,200 students in Helena and Blytheville. Through a rigorous PreK-12 program and an asset-based approach, KIPP empowers students to discover their purpose and expand regional opportunities.

Job Description

The Human Resources (HR) Generalist supports the mission of KIPP Delta Public Schools by ensuring efficient, compliant, and people-centered HR operations. The HR Generalist serves as the primary point of contact for employees regarding HR matters, manages core HR functions, and ensures compliance with Arkansas Department of Education (DESE), federal, and state employment regulations. This role requires strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced school environment.

Key Responsibilities

Talent Acquisition

• Support recruitment efforts for instructional and non-instructional staff, including job postings, candidate screening, and interview coordination.
• Coordinate new hire onboarding, including contracts, benefits enrollment, background checks, and DESE-required verifications.
• Ensure compliance with state licensure, certification, and personnel file requirements.

Employee Relations & Support

• Serve as a resource for staff inquiries on HR policies and procedures, benefits, leave, and payroll matters. 
• Manage employee relations issues, conduct investigations, and resolve conflicts fairly and consistently.
• Implement performance management systems to support employee development and organizational goals.

Compliance & Record Keeping

• Maintain accurate employee records per state and federal laws, DESE requirements, and organizational policies.
• Ensure timely completion of required background checks, Child Maltreatment Registry checks, and verification of employment eligibility (I-9).
• Monitor compliance with state-mandated training (e.g., mandated reporter, ethics, concussion management).

Payroll & Benefits Administration

• Partner with Finance & Payroll teams to process employee changes, leaves, and benefits updates accurately and on time.
• Assist employees with benefit enrollment, claims, and questions.
• Track and manage employee leave in compliance with the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), Arkansas leave laws, and school policies.

Organizational Development and Culture

• Support annual HR cycles, including open enrollment, contract renewals, and evaluations.
• Assist with audits and reporting for DESE, state, and federal compliance.
• Contribute to HR projects such as policy updates, handbook revisions, and employee engagement initiatives.

Other Responsibilities (As Needed)
This job description reflects the core functions and responsibilities of the role, but is not intended to be comprehensive. District leaders may assign additional duties as needed to support strategic priorities and organizational goals.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Admin, or a related field preferred.
• Licenses: Professional HR certification (e.g., SHRM-CP, PHR) preferred.
• Experience: At least 2 years of HR, school operations, or administrative experience.
• Must pass state and federal background checks, including fingerprinting and child maltreatment registry checks.
• Ongoing participation in professional development activities as required by ADE.
• Strong knowledge of HR best practices and applicable state and federal employment laws.
• Familiarity with Arkansas DESE requirements, background checks, and teacher licensure processes.
• Proficiency in HR information systems.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information.

Additional Information

District Specialist salaries will be based on individual experience and within the SY 2025-26 Salary Schedule range.

KIPP Delta Public Schools is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and organizational needs. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.