Director of Technology

About the role

Responsible for all aspects of information technology and systems, including planning, developing, directing, coordinating, and maintaining instructional and administrative systems. Provides technology vision and leadership for developing and implementing information technology initiatives supporting the district's goals with emphasis on integrating technology-based teaching and learning in classroom instruction.

Responsibilities

• Plan, develop, direct, coordinate, and maintain an information technology infrastructure, architecture, and program that support the district's goals and objectives.
• Implement policies, as required by federal and state law, State Board of Education rule, and local board policy in the area of information management and technology.
• Establish administrative guidelines and procedures for administrative and instructional use of district information technology systems.
• Actively participate with district leadership to create and implement a vision for how technology will support the district's strategic and operational goals.
• Stay abreast of state and national standards, benchmarks and frameworks for technology literacy and promote standards for innovative teaching and learning that develop student proficiency in 21st century skills.
• Conduct feasibility studies and design systems for all district data processing and computer use, determine current and future information system problems, and make recommendation on action to be taken.
• Collaborate with district leadership, building administration, faculty and staff to develop and implement plans to address technology needs.
• Plan, design, develop and install multiple centralized systems hardware, software and facilities such as for computer networks and allied communications.
• Develop a financial plan related to long-range development and utilization of the district's information technology systems.
• Develop and implement district standards and specifications for hardware and software.
• Establish and maintain systems and tools for gathering, warehousing, mining, integrating, and reporting data in usable and meaningful ways.
• Direct and coordinate use of e-mail and other forms of communication.
• Oversee the installation, maintenance, and repair of all computer hardware and software throughout the district.
• Ensure that disaster recovery and business continuity plans are an integral part of the district's technology program.
• Ensure a coordinated and layered approach to data security, developing sound security policies, investing in and deploying security controls, communicating threats, and educating employees on effective procedures to minimize contamination from viruses, malware, and other forms of cyber-intrusion.
• Develop and implement an appropriate in-service program to train faculty, staff and administration in the proper utilization and operation of the appropriate aspects of the district educational technologies and information systems.
• Develop and manage budgets, both annually and long-range, ensuring that programs are cost-effective and funds are utilized wisely.
• Compile budget and cost estimates based upon documented and/or projected program needs.
• Develop, maintain, and evaluate the district's E-Rate program, projects, and compliance.
• Coordinate the procurement of all computer hardware, software, and supplies, in accordance with budgetary limitations and district purchasing policies.
• Manage and coordinate the disposal and replacement of obsolete technology equipment, as necessary.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree
• Valid Texas teaching certificate
• Minimum of three (3) years teaching experience
• Minimum of three (3) years experience working with instructional software

Skills

• Thorough knowledge of the theory, principles, practices, and methods associated with the management and administration of a full-service technology department
• Knowledge of technology, public sector business practices, and educational processes and their cross-functional relationships
• Knowledge of data reporting as required by the Texas Education Agency including, the Texas Records Exchange (TREx), the Texas Education Data Standards (TEDS) and the Texas Student Data System (TSDS)
• Appropriate knowledge of wireless network architecture, fiber optics, hardware, software applications, telecommunications, systems analysis, data communications, data management, and computer programming
• Ability to conceptualize, launch, and deliver multiple information technology projects to meet the needs on the district on time and within budget
• Skilled at identifying and evaluating new technological developments and gauging their appropriateness for implementation
• Ability to develop short-term and long-range plans for technology
• Strong collaboration and organization abilities
• Ability to effectively and efficiently deliver technology services and provide high quality customer service
• Ability to effectively supervise and evaluate personnel
• Excellent management, oral and written communications, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to effectively communicate technology principles, initiatives, and processes to all district stakeholders
• Ability to interpret policy, procedures, and data

Supervisory Responsibilities

Supervise, evaluate, and recommend the hiring and firing of information technology department employees.

Working Conditions

Use of standard office equipment; prolonged sitting; repetitive hand motions, frequent keyboarding and use of mouse; occasional light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds); occasional prolonged and irregular hours; work with frequent interruptions, maintain emotional control under stress.