Duties
Key Responsibilities:
1. Leadership & Strategy:
Lead the district’s technology vision and strategy to align with educational goals,
including developing and implementing long-term technology infrastructure and
integration plans.
Collaborate with district leadership, educators, and stakeholders to identify
technology needs, opportunities for innovation, and resources that support
student learning and operational efficiency.
Develop and maintain the district's technology budget, ensuring effective
allocation of resources and providing cost-effective solutions for educational
technology needs.
2. Infrastructure & Systems Management:
Oversee the management and maintenance of the district’s technology
infrastructure, including servers, networks, devices, and data management
systems.
Ensure the district’s network security, data privacy, and disaster recovery
protocols comply with local, state, and federal regulations (e.g., FERPA, CIPA).
Manage cloud services, hardware upgrades, and software updates to keep
systems running efficiently and securely.
3. Digital Learning & Support:
Oversee the implementation of digital learning tools and platforms, ensuring
educational technologies support teaching and learning across K-8 grade levels.
Provide guidance and professional development to staff on integrating
technology into the curriculum, supporting in-person and remote learning
environments.
Develop and manage the district’s technology support services, including
helpdesk systems, training programs, and resources for students, teachers, and
staff.
4. Vendor & Project Management:
Manage relationships with technology vendors, suppliers, and consultants,
ensuring that contracts, pricing, and service level agreements (SLAs) align with
district needs and goals.
Lead the implementation of major IT projects, including software deployments,
system upgrades, networking equipment, and new technology adoptions.
Evaluate emerging technologies and recommend new tools that enhance
teaching, learning, and administrative functions.
5. Collaboration & Communication:
Act as a liaison between IT and other departments (e.g., curriculum,
administration, finance, teachers) to ensure technology supports district-wide
goals and operations.
Communicate technology updates, challenges, and opportunities regularly to the
school board, leadership teams, and school community.
Lead technology committees or working groups to involve faculty, staff, and
students in decisions about technology usage and innovation.
6. Compliance & Data Security:
Ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations regarding student data
privacy, security, and technology usage.
Develop and enforce district-wide policies and procedures for acceptable use,
data security, and technology equipment management.
7. Professional Development & Training:
Coordinate ongoing professional development opportunities for teachers, staff,
and administrators to build their technology skills and knowledge.
Promote using technology for personalized learning, differentiation, and
enhanced student engagement.
8. Supervision & Staff Management:
Lead, supervise, and mentor the district’s technology team, including
technicians, support staff, and educational technology specialists.
Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement
within the IT department.
This description provides an overview of the responsibilities and qualifications for
the Director of Technology position. While it's not a complete list, we may assign
other tasks to help our district reach its goals.
Working Conditions:
Full-time, year-round position.
Travel between school campuses may be required.
Ability to lift and move IT equipment and manage on-site installations and
repairs.
Qualifications
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Education
Technology, or a related field is preferred.
Experience:
At least 3-5 years of IT management experience, focusing on education
technology or K-12 school systems.
Proven leadership experience in managing technology infrastructure, staff, and
budgets.
Experience with the unique needs of a K-8 school district or educational setting is
highly desirable.
Technical Skills:
Strong knowledge of network infrastructure, hardware and software systems,
cybersecurity practices, and cloud-based applications.
Familiarity with educational technologies such as learning management systems
(LMS), student information systems (SIS), and digital assessment tools.
Proficiency in project management tools and techniques.
Soft Skills:
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate
effectively with diverse stakeholders.
Strong problem-solving abilities, analytical thinking, and attention to detail.
Capacity to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Certifications:
Relevant certifications (e.g., CompTIA, Cisco, JAMF, ITIL, Clever) are desirable but
optional.
Salary/Benefits
Salary range is anticipated to be 85k - 95k depending upon experience and qualifications.
Additional Notes
The Director of Technology plays a vital role in shaping the educational experience
at Ottawa Elementary School District 141, which serves our youngest learners from
preschool through 8th grade. This position is focused on thoughtfully planning
and implementing technology systems and services that genuinely support the
needs of students and staff. With a commitment to ensuring that all technology
resources are effective, safe, and reliable, the Director aims to create a nurturing
environment that encourages innovation and collaboration. This role is not just
about managing hardware and software; it’s about leading with empathy and
understanding, providing essential technical support, and guiding digital learning
initiatives that enhance the overall educational journey for everyone involved.
How to Apply
Please email lwalker@oes141.org your cover letter, resume, and three references.