Alternative Programs Coordinator

Position Summary

The Alternative Programs Coordinator will lead the development, implementation, and ongoing management of innovative county-wide alternative education programming operated collaboratively through Wallowa County Education Service District and component school districts. This position is responsible for designing and building a new department focused on serving diverse student needs through multiple educational pathways.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

- Design, develop, and implement a county-wide alternative education department serving all Wallowa County school districts. - Create systems, structures, policies, and operational procedures for alternative programs. - Develop and oversee an Online Hybrid Program integrating virtual instruction with hands-on, project-based S.T.R.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Recreation, Engineering, Art, and Math) learning. - Integrate outdoor education, environmental literacy, and experiential learning opportunities into program design. - Establish and manage a traditional alternative education program supporting diverse student academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs. - Develop curriculum frameworks, instructional models, and student support systems. - Hire, supervise, mentor, and evaluate instructional and support staff. - Build partnerships with local schools, community organizations, outdoor education partners, workforce agencies, and post-secondary institutions. - Coordinate student recruitment, enrollment, intervention planning, and retention efforts. - Ensure compliance with Oregon Department of Education requirements and applicable state and federal regulations. - Develop and monitor program budgets, grants, and funding opportunities. - Collect and analyze program data to support continuous improvement and reporting. - Facilitate stakeholder engagement, advisory committees, and community outreach. - Provide leadership in developing innovative educational pathways and opportunities for students. - Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

- Bachelor’s degree in Education, Educational Leadership, Curriculum & Instruction, or related field required. - Valid Oregon Teaching License required. - Administrative License or ability to obtain preferred. - Minimum of five (5) years of experience in education, alternative education, program development, or educational leadership. - Experience working with at-risk, underserved, or diverse student populations. - Valid Oregon driver’s license and ability to travel throughout Wallowa County.

Preferred Qualifications

- Master’s degree in Education or related field. - Experience developing or leading alternative education programs. - Experience with online, blended, or hybrid learning environments. - Knowledge of S.T.R.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Recreation, Engineering, Art, and Math)-based instructional practices and project-based learning. - Experience integrating outdoor or experiential education into instructional programming. - Experience supervising staff and building educational programs from inception. - Grant writing and program management experience. - Experience working in rural school systems and collaborative educational partnerships.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

- Strong leadership, organizational, and strategic planning skills. - Ability to develop innovative educational programs and systems. - Knowledge of curriculum development, instructional design, and alternative education best practices. - Ability to build positive relationships with students, families, staff, and community partners. - Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills. - Ability to manage multiple priorities and complex projects. - Knowledge of trauma-informed practices, student engagement strategies, and inclusive learning environments. - Proficiency with educational technology platforms and data systems. - Commitment to educational equity, student-centered learning, and continuous improvement.

Working Conditions

- Frequent travel throughout Wallowa County required. - Work is performed in office, school, outdoor, and community-based settings. - Occasional evening and weekend meetings, trainings, or events may be required. - Position may involve outdoor activities in varying weather conditions.

Evaluation

Performance of this position will be evaluated annually in accordance with Wallowa County ESD policies and administrative procedures.