Director of English Language Learners (ELL)

The Utica City School District is accepting applications from qualified candidates for the following position:

Director of English Laguage Learners

Title: Director of English Language Learners (ELL)
Reports To: Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction
Supervises: ENL Teachers, Bilingual Teachers, ELL Department Staff, and related support personnel
Bargaining Unit: Exempt (Confidential Contract)
Location: District Office
Work Year: 12 Months

Position Summary

The Director of English Language Learners (ELL) provides visionary and strategic leadership in the design, implementation, supervision, and evaluation of the Utica City School District’s programs and services for English Language Learners and Multilingual Learners (MLLs). This position ensures compliance with federal and state regulations, including CR Part 154, and promotes academic achievement and equitable access for all students acquiring English as a new language.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead the development, coordination, and evaluation of ENL and bilingual education programs across the district.
• Collaborate with school administrators, ENL teachers, and instructional staff to strengthen instructional practices that support multilingual learners.
• Oversee compliance with Commissioner’s Regulations Part 154, Title III, and all applicable federal and state mandates related to English learners.
• Develop, implement, and monitor district-wide professional development programs focused on culturally responsive instruction and second-language acquisition.
• Use data to inform instructional planning, program design, and student placement; provide analysis and reports on ELL student performance and progress.
• Supervise, coach, and evaluate assigned staff including ENL and bilingual personnel, ensuring adherence to district policies and the APPR process.
• Oversee translation and interpretation services, ensuring equitable communication with families and alignment with district standards.
• Develop and manage budgets, contracts, and grant-funded programs (including Title III) related to multilingual education.
• Coordinate partnerships with community organizations, higher education institutions, and family engagement initiatives to promote multilingual achievement.
• Work collaboratively with other departments — including Curriculum & Instruction, Assessment, Student Support Services, and World Languages — to ensure cohesive support for multilingual learners.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of instructional programs and recommend improvements based on research, data, and stakeholder input.
• Serve as a liaison between the district and the New York State Education Department (NYSED) on matters related to ELL/MLL programming and accountability.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction or Superintendent of Schools.

Qualifications

• Master’s Degree required; advanced study in educational leadership, TESOL, or bilingual education preferred.
• New York State Certification: School District Leader (SDL) or School District Administrator (SDA) required.
• Certification in one of the following areas:
• Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
• Special Education
• Elementary Education (Bilingual Extension Preferred)
• World Languages
• Minimum of five (5) years of certificated teaching and supervisory experience, including at least two (2) years in an administrative or supervisory capacity.
• Demonstrated expertise in bilingual and ENL program management, curriculum design, and staff development.
• Strong understanding of state and federal policies governing multilingual education (CR Part 154, ESSA Title III).
• Proven leadership in managing budgets, grants, and compliance reporting.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Deep understanding of second-language acquisition and culturally responsive pedagogy.
• Ability to interpret and apply complex educational regulations and accountability standards.
• Skill in data analysis and using metrics to inform decision-making.
• Capacity to lead collaborative teams, foster professional growth, and build systems of continuous improvement.
• Commitment to equity, inclusion, and multilingual learner success.

Working Conditions

• District-wide travel to schools required.
• Extended hours may be necessary for meetings, community events, or professional development sessions.

Evaluation

Performance will be evaluated annually in accordance with the Utica City School District’s administrative evaluation process and state regulations.

Terms of Employment

• Twelve-month position
• $144,522, salary commensurate with education and experience as determined by the Superintendent of Schools and the Board of Education.