Job Title: Executive Director of Early Learning                    Wage/Hour Status: Exempt

Reports to: Deputy Chief of Academics                                Pay Grade 8: Administrative Education

Dept./School:  Early Learning                                                 Initiated Date:  April 2024   

District Primary Purpose:
To lead and elevate La Joya ISD by championing a rigorous and innovative Pre-Kindergarten curriculum and instructional program, thereby enhancing student success and achievement at all levels.

Department Primary Purpose:
To ensure the LJISD priority that every child is Kindergarten ready. This position leads an intentional strategy for curriculum, assessment, and instruction that improves overall quality in Pre-Kindergarten classrooms across the District in reading, math, and age appropriate instructional practices to deeply engage LJISD’s youngest learners. It ensures the implemented Early Learning instructional approach and instructional materials reflect research and evidence-based practices and align with students needs vertically.

Education/Certification:

• Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Educational Leadership, Curriculum and Instruction, or directly related field;
• Valid Texas Mid-Management or Principal Certification;
• Valid Texas Teaching Certification, Early Childhood, PK-3 or Elementary.

Qualification Requirements:

• 6 years of experience including a minimum of -
  • 3 years teaching Early Childhood, PK-3, or Elementary; and,
  • 3 years as a central office leader or principal, with significant experience in working with programs for students at the early learning and elementary levels.
• Demonstrated leadership in educational administration with a focus on academic excellence and improving student outcomes.
• Strong collaborative and interpersonal skills to work effectively with educators, staff, and community stakeholders.
• Extensive experience with designing and delivering professional learning for adult learners (teachers, administrators, central office staff).
• Extensive experience in program design, development, implementation, and data-driven decision-making.
• Knowledge of program, curricular, and assessment requirements in Texas public schools PK-12, including Emergent Bilingual students.
• Knowledge of current teaching methods and educational pedagogy, as well as differentiated instruction based upon student levels.
• Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws, regulations, and reporting requirements, as well as District policies and procedures, related to Early Learning Education, special education, and individuals with disabilities.
• Knowledge of budgets and budgeting processes for both local and federal funds and experience in developing and managing central or campus budgets.
• Proven ability to implement best practices in administration, program evaluation, and staff supervision.
• Proven ability to plan, organize and coordinate projects, work and training related to the implementation and supervision of the Pre-Kindergarten instructional programs for the District.
• Proven ability to direct the on-going instructional programs for the District, providing for innovative approaches and modifications to improve the quality of Pre-Kindergarten instruction.
• Deep commitment to equity, inclusivity, and diversity in education.

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

• Lead an intentional strategy for curriculum, assessment, and instructional support that improves overall quality in Pre-Kindergarten classrooms across the District in reading, math, and age appropriate instructional practices to ensure LJISD’s youngest learners are Kindergarten ready.
• Lead the development and implementation of an innovative Early Learning team, facilitating inclusive practices and professional development that fosters continuous instructional improvement.
• Implements and monitors federal and state requirements and regulations pertaining to Early Learning instructional programs, professional development and curriculum standards.
• Direct comprehensive program evaluations, using data to drive improvements in Pre-Kindergarten student outcomes.
• Implement all state and locally required assessments to ensure adherence to State and Local policies/practices.
• Oversee the development and deployment of responsive and evidence-informed professional development programs for educators, promoting innovative practices and leadership growth across the organization in the area of Early Childhood Education.
• Collaborate with academic leaders to review and enhance Pre-Kindergarten curriculum programs, ensuring they meet student needs based on performance data and align with school improvement plans.
• Assist in the development and management of budgets equitably to support and maintain quality programs to maximize student achievement.
• Strategically allocate resources to align with student needs of Pre-Kindergarten students, ensuring every classroom benefits from systemic improvement practices.
• Collaborate with District staff to ensure that all Early Learning programs and supports are executed at the highest level and cross-functionally.
• Engage the community and external partners in discussions around Birth to Five, Kindergarten Readiness, and Quality Early Learning Programming to ensure alignment.
• Work closely with community run programs, to provide access to LJISD resources and staff, align pedagogy and practices, and ensure Kindergarten readiness for all future LJISD students.
• Collaborate with District departments to coordinate and implement programs that support the special needs of all student populations in Pre-Kindergarten.

Supervisory Responsibilities:
Direct supervision and evaluation of Early Learning Department staff.

Working Conditions:

Physical Demands:
Typical demands of an executive office environment, including extensive computer use and district-wide travel for meetings and events.

Work Environment:
Primarily office-based with regular interaction with district staff, educators, students, families, and community members. Attendance at evening or weekend events may be required.

Position Working Days:
226 Days