Director of Student Services

Welcome to Ames Community School District (CSD), where we are more than just a workplace – we are a community committed to fostering growth, recognition, and inclusivity. As an employee at Ames CSD, you will not only benefit from competitive compensation and a range of employee discount opportunities, but you will also have the chance to be part of an organization that values diversity and inclusion. Our commitment to providing state-of-the-art facilities, including new and renovated spaces, ensures that you will have the resources you need to excel in your role. 46.01% of certified staff have advanced degrees which highlights our dedication to professional development and advancement within the organization. Join us at Ames CSD, where your talents are recognized, and you have the opportunity to grow in a supportive and dynamic community.

Ames CSD is seeking a Director of Student Services for the 2024-2025 school year.

Work Schedule: 255 day contract

Summary
Assists the Superintendent in the administration of the School District by overseeing, aligning, and leading programming and staff for multiple aspects of the Ames CSD. The Director of Student Services provides leadership for the District’s transportation program. Oversees enrollment services for the District. Functions as the District’s Title IX coordinator. Provides leadership that creates an atmosphere for successful teaching and learning for students whose needs include interventions and programs in addition to the Tier 1 program.

Responsibilities/Essential Functions:

• Oversees, aligns, and leads the following programming and staff:
  • School and Family Advocates
  • At-Risk and Dropout Prevention Programs (ALP and Success)
  • Title 1 Program
  • School Counselors
  • EL Program
  • Extended Learning Program (ELP)
  • Summer School
  • Home School Assistance Program
  • Homeless Liaison
• Program leadership and oversights includes:
  • Prepares and administers reports, proposals, and grants , including timely filing of district, state, and national reports.
  • Coordinates with building principals the implementation of the District’s programs, according to program and funding guidelines including developing building plans and carrying out District criteria for student referral and participation in these programs.
  • Collects and organizes data necessary to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the programming.
  • Collects, monitors, and interprets achievement data.
  • Coordinates curriculum and instruction with school improvement staff.
  • Coordinates professional development and training with Superintendent for staff in these programs.
  • Oversees the budgets for these programs.
  • Assists District staff/building principals in hiring, placement, and evaluation of the district’s Student Services program staff.
  • Plans and administers a system for providing support, technical assistance, consultation, professional development, and supervision.
  • Works with the communication director to inform students, parents and staff of initiatives and student progress in these programs.
• Serves as a contributing member of the School Improvement Team.
• Prepares and submits timely and accurate reports to the superintendent, associate superintendent, school board, grantors, applicable regulatory agencies, and the state.
• Maintains positive public relations to encourage community support for all Student Services programs.
• Establishes inter-agency collaboration and/or agreements among school and community agencies/organizations for improving students’/families’ accessibility to services and students’ school performance.
• Acts as a liaison and primary contact with bussing provider, including problem solving transportation emergencies, working through bus related discipline, overseeing bus related fees, and monitoring bus safety completion.
• Collaborates with other directors and school staff to help lead and monitor the implementation of MTSS.
• Attends district Student Services programs/presentations (including before-and after-school programs) for students, parents, district, and community.
• Supervises ALP summer programming.
• Serves as the district Title IX Coordinator, ensuring staff training occurs as well as investigation processes following federal guidance and local policy.
• Oversees enrollment services for the District, including open enrollment processes, dual enrollment, attendance center assignments, and oversight of the home school assistance program (HSAP).
• Model advocacy for the welfare of all members of the learning community.
• Serves as a contributing member of the Administrative Team and other committees as assigned.
• Keeps the Superintendent advised on all relevant matters.
• In partnership with other Directors, support the implementation of District initiatives and the strategic plan.
• Display the highest ethical and professional behavior in working with students, parents, school personnel, and outside agencies associated with the school.
• Maintain overall coordination of tangible resources – food pantries, bike helmets, winter clothing, school supplies.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in educational leadership or related field is required.
• Iowa Educational Administration certification required.
• Evaluator Approval licensure required.
• A minimum of three years, of the last five years, of experience in school district administration or in organizations related to education
• Three to five years successful experience working with PK-12 alternative education students preferred.
• Experience as a principal is highly desirable.

The successful candidate will exhibit:

• Knowledge of student program design, assessment and evaluation.
• Experience with aligning general education curriculum with alternative programs.
• Experience developing curriculum and assessments in the area of literacy and language arts, including best practice in instructional delivery.
• Experience designing and implementing professional development for differentiated instructional strategies and cooperative teaching for alternative education.
• Ability to work collaboratively with others and build positive constructive relationships with stakeholders.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Ability to effectively manage and lead within a complex organization.
• Ability to influence others and serve as an educational change agent.
• Ability to analyze data for program development and improvement.
• Ability to interpret research studies and school board policies.
• Ability to communicate effectively with a variety of audiences using verbal, written and technological skills.
• Strong advocate for students.
• Ability to create a sense of belonging and welcoming environment for students and staff.
• Consistent and punctual basis work attendance.

Required Application Materials:

• Three (3) current reference letters
• Resume
• Letter of Introduction

Compensation: Pay commensurate with education and experience.

Benefits:

• Health/Dental/Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Paid Time Off-Paid holidays, (11) vacation (accrued monthly), sick leave (12 days the first year), emergency leave (5)
• IPERS Retirement

Closing Date: May 21, 2024

Choosing the Ames Community School District isn't just about a job – it's about becoming part of a vibrant and close-knit community, nestled in the heart of Iowa. With its small-town charm and big-city amenities, Ames offers a unique blend of contentment and excitement. As a college town, opportunities to engage and get involved abound, whether it's through cultural events, educational pursuits, or community initiatives. At Ames, you're not just joining a workplace; you're becoming a valued member of a community driven by collaboration, growth, and a shared commitment to excellence. Come be a part of Ames, where both your professional and personal aspirations can thrive.

Candidates, please follow the link to apply online: https://www.applitrack.com/amesk12/OnlineApp/JobPostings/View.asp?AppliTrackJobId=1237
ACSD is an E-Verify employer.

To learn more about the Ames Community School District, visit our websites:

• District Website
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• Amazing Magazine

It is the policy of the Ames Community School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, creed, age (for employment), marital status (for programs), sexual orientation, gender identity and socioeconomic status (for programs) in its educational programs and its employment practices. There is a grievance procedure for processing complaints of discrimination. If you have questions or a grievance related to this policy please contact the Human Resources Director at the District Offices, 2005 24th St. Ames, IA 50010, (515) 268-6610.