Director of English as a Second Language (ESL)

Description

Definition The Director of English as a Second Language (ESL), performs senior-level work with extensive decision- making discretion leading, planning, coordinating, and executing plans in high-quality Language Instruction Educational Programs (LIEPs), evidence-based professional development. The Director also performs advanced and supervisory work to carry out the Gaston County Schools Board of Education policies and procedures related to Title III under the direction of the Associate Superintendent of Academic Services.

Duties and Responsibilities Duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Adhere to all state, federal, and local laws, policies, and procedures.
• Interpret and apply local, state, and federal policies to program implementation.
• Lead, manage, supervise, and evaluate assigned programs/staff in the district.
• Develop, plan, implement, monitor, and assess department goals and objectives.
• Provide leadership for assigned Title III programs and services to increase Multilingual Learner (ML) student learning, success and achievement of district priorities.
• Supervise the provision of ML resources and support to schools such as curriculum, instruction, test materials, textbooks, and instructional materials.
• Initiate and coordinate ML program areas in need of new program and/or curriculum development.
• Participate in and oversee the completion of federal, state, and local Title III reports.
• Initiate and coordinate language acquisition and content area curriculum development and new programs for areas in need.
• Assess needs for ML and distribute ML teacher allotments accordingly.
• Respond to and resolve difficult and sensitive inquiries and complaints regarding Title III issues.
• Identify, apply for, and administer grants to close service gaps and improve overall quality of services available to ML students.
• Assist in the collection and submission of annual state ML headcounts.
• Analyze ML achievement data to assist schools with determining the effectiveness of instruction for ML students.
• Develop training and school support plans focused on higher ML student achievement.
• Evaluate and respond to training, support needs, and guidance for the district and community agency staff providing ML services to schools.
• Monitor and participate in the development and administration of the department budget, and Title III Grant application.
• Participate in relevant committees and boards as assigned.
• Create an inclusive environment with positive communication/public relations.
• Perform related work as assigned or required. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
• Knowledge, understanding of the principles, practices, and procedures of Gaston County Schools and North Carolina School policies.
• Knowledge of local, state, and federal regulatory requirements applicable to Title III.
• Knowledge of NC English language development essential standards (WIDA standards) and NC Standard Course of Study.
• Knowledge of public-school administration structure and challenges facing large, diverse school districts.
• Comprehensive knowledge of staff development practices, procedures, and techniques.
• Ability to apply a high level of specialized expertise in language development and federal and state laws related to Title III and English Learner education.
• Ability to write federal and state grants.
• Ability to develop and monitor a budget.
• Ability to direct and evaluate the work of others.
• Excellent communication, problem solving, and conflict resolution skills.
• Ability to reason, make judgments, and maintain effective working relationships.
• Ability to employ positive communication skills in all settings/mediums with poise, voice control, and confidence.
• Ability to problem-solve utilizing sound judgment.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding school system business.
• Ability to take initiative, work independently, and exercise sound judgment.
• Ability to maintain, analyze, and interpret data.
• Ability to develop related charts, graphs, reports, and records pertaining to school planning and strategy.
• Ability to conceptualize, initiate, monitor, and evaluate new and/or current programs.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a deadline-driven, rapidly changing team environment. Physical Requirements
• Must be able to exert up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly.
• Requires climbing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, hearing, reaching, standing, lifting, walking, grasping, and talking.
• Requires the ability to talk and hear: (Talking: expressing or exchanging ideas by means of spoken words. Hearing: perceiving nature of sounds by ear.).
• Must possess the visual acuity to prepare data, work with record processes, and do extensive reading and research.
• Must be physically able to operate a variety of equipment including computers, copiers, etc. Minimum Education and Experience.
• Bachelors' degree in foreign language, applied linguistics, or related field required.
• Masters'; degree in ESL, foreign language, applied linguistics, or related field preferred.
• At least three years teaching experience required.
• At least three years district administrative experience required.
• Valid NC Teaching License in ESL required. Salary: Central Office Salary Schedule Classification: Exempt Reports to: Associate Superintendent of Academic Services Disclaimer: The preceding job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees to this job. If offered a position, prospective employee must pass a required health exam, criminal records check, and drug test.