EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CAREER AND COLLEGE SUCCESS

Applications will be received until August 19th, 2026. If the position is not filled by then, we may consider applications submitted after the deadline.

About the Role

Leads the development, implementation, and growth of Career and College Success programming to ensure every student graduates career and college ready, is prepared for, and has a plan for the future. Manages the day-to-day operations and expansion of programming in schools District-wide. Develops, evaluates, and revises career and college success programs and implementation of career exploration, work-based learning, career and technical education (CTE), and higher education initiatives in alignment with District goals and graduation requirements.

Cultivates strong relationships with external and internal stakeholders and partners with local businesses and policymakers to enhance student supports and exploration. Expands opportunities and accomplishes ambitious district strategic goals in alignment with postsecondary and workforce readiness (PWR), including work-based learning experiences, industry-recognized credentials, and 12 college credits for all high school graduates. Collaborates with stakeholders to expand CTE innovation hubs aligned to the district strategic roadmap vision. Reports to the Chief of Academics.

Plays a critical role in achieving Board of Education ends and goals through shared commitment to Students First, Integrity, Equity, Collaboration, Accountability, and Fun. Plans, assigns, and supervises work to ensure goals are accomplished. Ensures compliance with District policy, practices, and applicable federal, state, and local rules and regulations. Requires maintaining the highest level of confidentiality regarding all District matters, especially those involving the Superintendent, Chief of Staff, and the Board of Education.

Responsibilities

• Develops vision, change management, and expansion plan for Career and College Success in alignment with district priorities and goals.
• Leads and administers all aspects of student support and career exploration offerings, including program development, implementation, evaluation, and modification; ensures compliance with institutional, state, and federal guidelines.
• Develops effective, contemporary, professional, and responsive programs to meet area economic and workforce needs.
• Works collaboratively with school-based and district leaders and staff to ensure cohesive implementation of Career and College Success student supports in alignment with district priorities; ensures effective implementation, support, and build-out of individual career and academic plans (ICAP) as part of graduation requirements.
• Determines mission, goals, objectives, staffing requirements, and infrastructure needs for successful student support and career exploration programming.
• Oversees, coordinates, implements, and maintains a staff development program that emphasizes connections between student learning and professional learning.
• Collaborates with and seeks funding from public entities, private foundations, professional organizations, and other resources to increase opportunities for students and provide professional growth opportunities for staff.
• Cultivates strategic partnerships with local, state, and federal agencies and neighboring communities; serves on and leads district and state committees as needed.
• Applies national and international best practices and research for student support, engagement, and work-based learning exposure; provides leadership in determining appropriateness for inclusion in the district’s educational program.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Education or related field.
• Master's Degree in Education preferred.
• Five years of experience in leadership and educational settings.
• Lead for racial and educational excellence and work to dismantle systems of oppression and inequity in our community; belief in and support for all students so they feel seen and heard with access to high-quality education.
• Live and work with a permanent home address in Colorado while working with us.
• Ability, with or without accommodations, to meet the physical demands of the position.

Skills

• Knowledge of applicable laws and regulations.
• Ability to effectively lead a function.
• Ability to develop, plan, and implement long-range goals, establish priorities, and organize resources.
• Demonstrated experience performing as an effective leader and team player, recognizing and resolving conflicts or potentially controversial situations through diplomacy.
• Strong interpersonal and leadership skills, including the ability to lead a high-performing team.
• Superior leadership, coaching, and mentoring skills.
• Focus on significantly improving business performance and growth.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work with individuals at all levels in the organization.
• Focuses function on strategic goals.
• Encourages diversity and mutual respect among team members and demonstrates compassion and sensitivity.

Pay

$125,185 - $153,329.

Benefits

In addition to competitive compensation, DPS offers Total Reward offerings such as time off, health and wellness benefits, and PERA Retirement.