Keystone Learning Executive Director

Executive Director Search

The Keystone Learning Services Board of Districts Served Directors is seeking applications from interested and highly qualified candidates to fill the position of Executive Director. Keystone Learning Services Total Enrollment is accredited by the Kansas State Department of Education. A contract will be offered with a salary based on qualifications and experience along with a benefits package to the successful applicant. Keystone is an Equal Opportunity Employer. TASN ATBS/SMHI, PAT, TinyK & more

Reports To: Board of Directors

Purpose: The Executive Director manages the overall operation of the organization as designated by the Governing Board; represents the organization and serves as a resource to internal and external parties; establishes long- and short-term goals and procedures; and ensures compliance to policies and codes. The Executive Director makes recommendations to the Board regarding all fiscal, personnel, and procedural, and policy issues pertaining to Keystone Learning Services.

• Collaborates with a wide variety of stakeholders (e.g., directors, superintendents, auditors, community organizations, regulatory agencies, school districts, etc.) to implement program components and address organizational objectives.
• Compiles data from a variety of sources (e.g., eligibility data, case load data, regulatory updates, etc.) to develop financial, legal, and administrative policies and procedures; evaluate specific requests; and measure the success of organizational objectives.
• Delegates responsibility for a variety of administrative functions as appropriate for the purpose of managing the organization's operations and ensuring services are effectively and efficiently provided within established guidelines and policies.
• Develops processes and procedures (e.g., internal controls, policies, interlocal agreement, state/federal government reports, procedures, proposals, long and short-range plans, budgets and grant opportunities, etc.) to achieve organizational objectives and board policies while remaining in compliance with legal requirements.
• Implements solutions to a variety of complex issues (e.g., budgeting, negotiations, etc.) for the purpose of fulfilling federal and state education requirements while addressing the needs and responsibilities of the organization.
• Manages all services and functions of the organization (e.g., maintenance of complete student records, etc.) for the purpose of the provision of special education services in accordance with state and federal law.
• Monitors operations, programs/grants, budgets, and related activities of the organization for the purpose of ensuring that objectives are attained within budget and in compliance with regulatory requirements, established policies, and operational practices.
• Presents information on a variety of topics (e.g., strategic planning, budget, legislation, etc.) to convey information to seek feedback and approval, and make sound recommendations regarding services.
• Recommends solutions to address operational and educational needs of the organization.
• Represents the organization within the member communities, on committees, and at professional organizational meetings for the purpose of gaining knowledge necessary for operations while serving as a spokesperson for the organization and governing board.
• Supports the Board of Directors for the purpose of developing and implementing services and programs for achieving the operational goals of the organization.

Skills are required to perform multiple, highly complex, technical tasks while periodically acquiring new knowledge to meet changing job conditions. Specific skill-based competencies required include: developing and administering budgets; operating standard office equipment including pertinent software applications; planning and managing multiple projects; preparing and maintaining accurate records; and training, developing, and supervising staff.

Knowledge is required to perform math calculations; review and interpret highly technical information, write technical materials, and/or speak persuasively to implement desired actions; and analyze situations to define issues and draw conclusions. Specific knowledge-based competencies required include: pertinent policies, regulations, and laws; current trends and practices in special education; principles of employee development and management; project development, goal attainment, and time management; and principles of conflict resolution.

Ability is required to coordinate a number of activities, meetings, and/or events; gather, collate, and/or classify data; and consider a number of factors when using equipment and technology. Ability is also required to work with diverse individuals and/or groups; work with a variety of data; and use different job-related equipment. Must rely on independent problem-solving skills to create action plans. Specific ability-based competencies include: adapting to changing work priorities; dealing with frequent and sustained interruptions; developing and maintaining positive working relationships; facilitating communication between persons with divergent positions; implementing change; maintaining confidentiality; meeting deadlines and schedules; providing direction and leadership; and setting priorities.

• Confer with local districts and NEKESC administrators in determining special education staff needs.
• Assist in implementing NEKESC policies and procedures and maintain personnel records for special education staff.
• Performs personnel functions (e.g., interviewing, evaluating, supervising, etc.) for the purpose of maintaining adequate staffing, enhancing productivity of personnel, and achieving objectives within budget.
• Collaborate with NEKESC and local administrators in planning and implementing staff development activities that will enable all staff to have the necessary skills and understandings to carry out their assigned jobs and will assure special education services that are of good quality and in compliance with state and federal regulations.
• Promote the priorities of the NEKESC and local districts by gaining the expertise to provide staff training and coaching on identified areas of emphasis.
• Provide coaching and mentoring to NEKESC staff.
• Continuously monitor the current status and needs of the NEKESC local district special education services in relation to federal and state regulations, judicial interpretations, and local district school improvement plans.
• Collaborate with the NEKESC administrative team and local district administrators to develop policy and procedure recommendations and job descriptions necessary to assure compliance and quality services.
• Provide technical assistance and problem-solving to local districts to assure compliance and quality services.

Enhance efficiency of the NEKESC administrative team cross training and collaboration on duties including but not limited to: Media Center/Resource Library supervision, paraeducator facilitator, assistive technology evaluations/purchases, supervising the Professional Development Council and MIS/Medicaid personnel. Also, coordinating the IEP and Early Childhood programs, supervising departmental meetings, and other assignments as requested by the Keystone Board of Directors. And, incorporate resources from other work units to perform priorities as they materialize.

The usual and customary methods of performing the job's functions require the following physical demands, occasional lifting and carrying up to twenty (20) pounds some pushing, and/or pulling, and significant fine finger dexterity. Generally, the job requires 60% sitting, 20% walking, and 20% standing. This job is performed in a generally clean and healthy environment.

Core requirements:

• Experience: Job related experience within a specialized field is required.
• Education: Master's degree required; doctorate preferred.
• Equivalency: Required Testing Certificates and Licenses. Must be eligible for district level licensure in Kansas
• Driver's License and Evidence of Insurability
• Continuing Educ. / Training Clearances