03/15/2012 24390

DIRECTOR, SCHOOL SERVICES OFFICE

DEFINITION: This is highly responsible educational leadership and management work in directing educational program services for the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

The employee in this job is responsible for directing and developing policies for the School Services Office. Work includes planning, developing, coordinating and evaluating various basic education program services administered in the School Services Office and directing the development, implementation, and interpretation of program plans, goals, and services. Work involves developing policies that address emergency school closings, alterations or curtailment of education programs, enrollment of students, teacher background checks, and Child Labor Law; and directing consultative services for school administrators, teachers, intermediate unit personnel and others in the interpretation of the School Laws of Pennsylvania and the various regulations and rules affecting basic education programs and services within the Commonwealth. Work also involves coordinating and participating in cross-bureau programs and projects and serving as liaison to departmental bureaus and other state agencies to advance the Department’s goals and objectives and to improve the statewide delivery
of educational and student support services. The employee also oversees the development, review, approval, and issuance of Basic Education Circulars. Supervision is exercised over professional, administrative, and clerical staff. Work is performed independently under the general direction of the Deputy Secretary for the Office of Elementary/Secondary Education and is subject to review through conferences, reports, and evaluation of program results.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Develops policies and revises existing policies impacting schools statewide.

Determines priorities, establishes objectives, and drafts recommendations for change or improvement in educational programs and services.

Interprets laws, regulations, policies, and procedures for school administrative staff, the legislature, educational groups, professional organizations, other state agencies, Department staff, parents and the public.

Serves as a consultant to legislative staff, state agencies, Department staff, and school administrators regarding various educational programs.

Works with staff within and outside the Department to review and coordinate efforts and progress to accomplish priorities, initiatives, and mandated functions in accordance with the Department’s objectives and plans.

Identifies problems in program operations and implements viable solutions.

Reviews policy and program proposals and recommendations with program officials to determine acceptability, avoid duplication, engender and coordinate cooperation across program lines, and ensure compatibility and conformance with overall departmental goals and objectives.

Participates in meetings, committees, conferences, and work groups to coordinate activities in implementing program and policy objectives.

Performs the full range of supervisory duties.

The employee in this job may participate in the performance of subordinates’ work consistent with operational or organizational requirements.

Performs related work as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of the structure and organization of public and non-public education.

Knowledge of the objectives of public and non-public education.

Knowledge of educational principles, practices, theories, trends, and methods.

Knowledge of the principles and practices of educational administration.

Ability to analyze and interpret policy.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Ability to communicate effectively orally.

Ability to communicate effectively in writing.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: Six years of professional education experience including two years in an administrative, managerial or supervisory capacity, and a bachelor’s degree;

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An equivalent combination of experience and training that includes two years of professional education experience in an administrative, managerial or supervisory capacity.