Manager of Special Initiatives

Position Type:
Administrator Ops/Manager

Date Posted:
11/8/2024

Location:
Lincoln Center

Closing Date:
11/18/2024

District:
Waukegan Community Unit District 60 - websiteWho We Are:
Waukegan Community Unit School District No. 60 serves nearly 15,500 students in preschool through grade 12 and is located halfway between Chicago, Illinois and Milwaukee, Wisconsin on the shores of Lake Michigan. The District has one early learning center, 15 elementary schools, five middle schools and a high school program divided between two 9 - 12th grade campuses. The District encompasses portions of Waukegan, Beach Park and Park City.

Why We Do This Work:
The Waukegan Community Unit School District No. 60 has set an ambitious agenda for change, guided by the belief that all children, regardless of circumstances, can achieve at high levels and academic gaps can and will be eliminated with the support of teachers who deliver engaging, relevant, and academically rigorous instruction that excites students and instills a love of learning in them.

What We Need:
The Manager of Special Initiatives Manager will work within the Department of Equity and Inclusion and will play a vital role in fostering an inclusive and equitable educational environment for all students, staff, and families. This position will be responsible for implementing the African American Male Student Achievement Initiative and is responsible for driving the development, implementation, and coordination of additional special initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion across the PreK-12 public school district.

Organizational Relationship:
Under the primary direction of the Director of Equity and Inclusion and the secondary direction of the Associate Superintendent, the Manager of Special Initiatives will collaborate closely with school leaders, educators, community partners, and district stakeholders to ensure that the district's commitment to equity is upheld in all aspects of education and enhance the district's efforts to close the opportunity gaps and to disrupt and dismantle inequitable practices.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Will work to contribute to, communicate and achieve the department's yearly goals as aligned to the district's strategic plan.
• Working closely with the Director, monitor and assist in the evaluation of DEI initiatives and effectiveness based on data.
• Initiative Development: Collaborate with the Director of Equity and Inclusion to identify, develop, and implement special initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within the district.
• Research and stay updated on best practices, emerging trends, and relevant legislation in the field of equity and education.
• Program Implementation: Lead the planning, execution, and evaluation of special initiatives, ensuring alignment with the district's equity goals and objectives. Develop detailed project plans, timelines, and resource allocation to achieve successful outcomes.
• Collaboration: Foster strong partnerships with school leaders, teachers, staff, students, families, and community organizations to ensure a collaborative approach to equity and inclusion initiatives. Coordinate and facilitate working groups, committees, and task forces as needed.
• Professional Development: Identify training needs and develop relevant professional development opportunities for district staff to enhance their understanding of equity, cultural competency, and inclusion practices. Collaborate with the district departments to deliver engaging workshops, seminars, and training sessions.
• Data Analysis: Collect, analyze, and interpret data related to equity and inclusion efforts. Use data to track progress, identify areas for improvement, and inform decision-making processes. Generate reports and presentations for district leadership, BOE, and stakeholders.
• Community Engagement: Develop and maintain relationships with local community organizations, leaders, and advocates focused on equity and inclusion. Collaborate to ensure that district initiatives are aligned with community needs and concerns.
• Communication: Develop clear and effective communication strategies to disseminate information about special initiatives, progress, and outcomes to internal and external stakeholders. Utilize various channels, including social media, newsletters, and district website, to promote awareness and engagement.
• Resource Management: Manage budgets, grants, and resources allocated for special initiatives. Ensure proper allocation and utilization of funds for maximum impact.
• Participate in reviewing equity and inclusion with respect to curriculum design and student support.
• Support equity audits
• Serve as an active and contributing member of the Department of Equity and Inclusion team, and engage in continuous improvement, problem-solving, and individual and collective self-reflection and learning around issues of racial equity and other district initiatives.
• Perform additional ad hoc duties as assigned by the Director.

Qualifications:

Bachelor's or higher education degree preferred;

Experience working in a formal leadership role within an organization preferred;

Experience working as a school and/or district-level administrator preferred;

Commitment to the belief that all children, regardless of circumstances, can achieve at high levels;

Demonstrated understanding of equity, diversity, and inclusion principles and practices;

Strong project management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and manage multiple initiatives simultaneously;

Excellent communication skills, including public speaking, writing, and interpersonal abilities;

Proficiency in data analysis and utilization of data to drive decision-making;

Experience in developing and delivering professional development workshops or training sessions;

Demonstrate proficiency in various instructional technology tools;

General knowledge of the culturally responsive teaching and leading standards for all Illinois educators standards preferred.

Note: The above statements are intended to describe the essential functions and related requirements of persons assigned to this job. They are not intended as an exhaustive list of job duties, responsibilities, and requirements.

Additional Information:

Work Environment: Busy office environment with multiple priorities and frequent interruptions.

Safety: The employee is responsible for taking any and all steps necessary to protect yourself and others against occupational accidents, injuries, and illnesses.

Terms of Employment: 12-months
Compensation: Salary Structure
Application Deadline: Only applications received online will be considered for interviews.

Apply: www.wps60.org
Waukegan Community Unit School District 60 offers employment opportunities without regard to age, gender, race, color, gender identity, national origin,
religion, marital or military/veteran status, sexual orientation, pregnancy, parental status, genetics, disability or other protected category.