The Director of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) oversees and provides leadership in the development, implementation, and evaluation of the district's STEM programs, initiatives and curricula and coordinates STEM-related professional learning. This administrator works closely with teachers, staff, and administration to evaluate programs and practices, fostering an environment that drives innovation, critical thinking and problem-solving for the benefit of all students. By identifying and implementing opportunities to increase the quality of the district’s STEM programs, real-world learning opportunities and career pathways, this individual must maintain high standards and exhibit strong leadership through strategic planning and collaboration to drive effective systems, educational initiatives, enrichment, and interventions to ensure that all students receive the necessary challenge and support.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities:
- leads the design, implementation, alignment and evaluation of a comprehensive and cohesive Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) program and curricula across all grade levels (K-12)
- provides leadership and vision for district-wide STEM initiatives, ensuring forward-thinking approaches
- oversees and supports the implementation of new and existing STEM programs, such as coding clubs, robotics teams, maker spaces, and science fairs
- ensures curricula are aligned with state standards and national guidelines
- supports the overall strategy to meet each building’s school improvement plan
- creates, maintains, and updates instructional resources and curricula as needed
- collaborates with cross-functional teams to integrate STEM practices across core subjects and through interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary projects
- provides feedback from leadership and staff to inform district policy and programming.
- provides leaders with research-based data that allows for informed decision-making
- prepares reports, presentations, and other essential information for district and school leaders
- creates systems for the analysis of data, collaborates with teachers and administrators to assess student instruction and performance and develop strategies for building on strengths and addressing gaps in learning and programming
- supports the effective use and integration of technology for instruction and data management and analysis
- implements action plans to achieve department and district goals
- creates opportunities for input and feedback through multiple measures (e.g., surveys, meetings, and assessments) to identify programmatic and student needs
- develops tools and systems to monitor and review programs and to regularly evaluate and adjust for effectiveness
- maintains and monitors systems for supervision of all STEM departmental personnel
- conducts classroom observations and walk-throughs to develop positive relationships and provide constructive feedback, support, guidance and counseling
- provides ongoing professional development training
- coordinates meetings to allow for vertical and horizontal articulation
- fosters collaboration and communication by engaging stakeholders: teachers, families, and community partners
- allocates required resources by identifying funding, seeking grants to support initiatives.
- works with administration across the district to develop fiscally sound and educationally responsible staffing projections and recommendations.
Additional Roles and Responsibilities:
- builds and maintains partnerships with local businesses, higher education institutions, other K-12 STEM leaders and community organizations to enhance STEM-based learning opportunities.
- fosters relationships with external STEM-related organizations to secure grants, resources and other forms of support for the district.
- engages parents and community stakeholders through events, outreach, and communication about the importance of STEM education
- provides guidance and leadership in the development of STEM conferences, district Science/STEM Fairs, workshops, research and publications projects, consultation, and support for STEM meetings and projects
- facilitates and manages the comprehensive STEM strategy and develops an annual STEM report for Board of Education, Superintendent, and the public.
- collaborates with elementary, secondary, and central administrative colleagues, with a focus on the mission, vision, and core beliefs of the district
- acts with integrity, tolerance, and respect for others
Essential Skills and/or Experience:
- Minimum of 5 years of successful experience in educational administration.
- At least 5 years of successful classroom teaching experience in a K-12 setting in a STEM-related position.
- Proven results as a teacher, school leader, and school systems leader.
- Commitment to and experience providing equitable experiences and outcomes for all students.
- Extensive knowledge of national and New York State standards, specifically, but not limited to, the Next Generation Standards in Mathematics and Science, MST Standards for Technology Education, CSDF Standards and the International Technology and Engineering Educators Standards and best instructional practices for implementation and instruction related to said standards.
- Experience analyzing academic data and advising on strategies.
- Knowledge of and experience with best practices for supporting Students with Disabilities and English Language Learners
Qualifications and Requirements:
- NYS valid SDL or SDA certification required.
- Master’s degree in a relevant field
- Doctorate preferred
- Lead principal experience preferred
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- Experience with data reporting and analysis
- A high degree of acumen with technology and data systems
- Experience leading and developing instructional technology initiatives
- Knowledge of student and district management systems
- Experience modeling the delivery of technology-infused instructional practices for teachers
- Strong project management and troubleshooting skills and demonstrated ability to plan, organize, and manage programs and projects
Reports to:
The Assistant Superintendent for Learning and Teaching
Supervises:
K-12 Instruction in Related Content and Support Areas
Length of Year:
Full-time (12 months)
Salary:
Commensurate with the Northport Association of School Administrators (NASA) contract