Job Title: Director
Department/Agency: Department of Education (DOE)
Closing Date: December 13, 2024
Type of Position: Political Appointee
Posting Type: Employment Opportunity/Open to the Public
Pay Grade and Salary Range: GS-18/$70,000 - $85,000 p.a.
Email Your Resume, Cover Letter and References to: OfficeGovElectASG@gmail.com
Your Resume - Attach your updated resume in either a txt, Word document, or PDF format. Confirm the subject line includes the position you are applying for: Department of Education (DOE)
Submit a Cover Letter and Headshot - Include a personalized cover letter explaining your interest and qualifications for the role. Be sure to include a recent headshot photo.
Provide Professional References - Send a list of at least three professional references. Include their names, phone numbers, and email addresses. You are welcome to include letters of reference if available.
General Description
The Director of the American Samoa Department of Education (ASDOE) is the chief executive responsible for the overall leadership, strategic direction, and administration of the public education system in American Samoa. This executive role demands an individual with exceptional leadership and vision to ensure that all students have access to a high-quality education that fosters academic excellence, personal growth, and cultural identity. The Director will oversee the implementation of policies, programs, and initiatives that align with both contemporary educational standards and the unique cultural heritage of American Samoa. Reporting directly to the Governor and collaborating with key stakeholders, the Director is instrumental in shaping the future of education in the territory.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership and Vision:
Lead the development and execution of a comprehensive, long-term educational strategy that drives student achievement, teacher effectiveness, and the integration of cultural values into the educational framework.
Foster a vision of academic excellence that is inclusive of all students, while championing educational innovation, continuous improvement, and accountability within the Department.
Represent the Department at the highest levels of government and the community, advocating for policies and funding to support educational priorities, and strengthening partnerships with key stakeholders such as the Governor, the Legislature, and local organizations.
Policy Formulation and Regulatory Compliance:
Establish, implement, and continuously evaluate educational policies and practices that comply with federal, territorial, and local educational mandates, including special education laws, Title I requirements, and other relevant regulatory standards.
Monitor evolving educational laws, policies, and best practices, ensuring the ASDOE remains responsive to emerging trends and shifts in the education landscape.
Ensure the Department’s operations adhere to high standards of accountability, transparency, and compliance with all legal and ethical regulations.
Curriculum Development and Educational Programs:
Oversee the creation and implementation of a rigorous, culturally relevant curriculum that supports the academic and personal development of all students.
Ensure alignment with national and international educational standards, while promoting the integration of Samoan culture and traditions into teaching methodologies and learning resources.
Work closely with school administrators and educators to guide instructional improvements, ensuring the curriculum meets the diverse needs of students and prepares them for success in an increasingly interconnected world.
Financial and Resource Management:
Direct the Department’s financial operations, ensuring optimal resource allocation to support academic programs, infrastructure, and staff development.
Lead the development of the ASDOE budget, monitor expenditures, and ensure effective use of funds to enhance educational outcomes and administrative efficiency.
Pursue innovative funding opportunities through federal grants, private partnerships, and collaborations with community stakeholders to bolster educational initiatives.
Human Resources and Professional Development:
Oversee the recruitment, development, and retention of highly qualified educators, administrators, and support staff.
Champion professional development initiatives designed to enhance teaching effectiveness, leadership capabilities, and operational excellence within the Department.
Foster a positive, inclusive work environment that encourages collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to educational equity and excellence.
Community Engagement and Stakeholder Collaboration:
Serve as the primary liaison between the Department and various stakeholders, including students, parents, educators, community leaders, and governmental entities.
Cultivate strong relationships with local and national partners to ensure community engagement, solicit feedback, and address the diverse educational needs of students and their families.
Lead efforts to actively involve the community in decision-making processes, ensuring that educational policies and programs reflect the values and priorities of American Samoa.
Monitoring, Assessment, and Continuous Improvement:
Establish and maintain a robust system for monitoring student performance, departmental effectiveness, and educational outcomes.
Utilize data analytics to assess progress toward educational goals, identify areas of improvement, and implement targeted interventions to enhance student achievement.
Provide regular, transparent reports to the Governor, the Legislature, and the public, ensuring that all stakeholders are informed about the Department’s performance and progress.
Crisis Management and Problem-Solving:
Lead the Department in responding to crises and emergencies, ensuring that appropriate plans and resources are in place to address disruptions to the education system, such as natural disasters, health emergencies, or other unforeseen events.
Proactively develop strategies to mitigate risks and challenges within the education system, balancing immediate needs with long-term goals for student success.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Educational Leadership:Â A deep understanding of educational theories, practices, and administrative strategies, with a proven track record of leading educational reform and improvement initiatives.
Cultural Competence:Â A strong appreciation of Samoan culture, language, and traditions, and the ability to integrate these elements into the curriculum and educational policies.
Regulatory Expertise:Â Extensive knowledge of federal and territorial education laws, including those governing special education, school accountability, civil rights, and curriculum standards.
Financial Acumen:Â Expertise in budget management, resource allocation, and securing funding through grants and partnerships to support educational objectives.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills:Â Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage a diverse range of stakeholders and build consensus around educational initiatives.
Data-Driven Decision-Making:Â Strong analytical skills, with the ability to use educational data to inform decision-making, evaluate outcomes, and adjust strategies for continuous improvement.
Crisis Leadership and Innovation:Â Ability to lead through adversity, demonstrating creative problem-solving and innovative thinking to overcome educational challenges and ensure resilience in the education system.
Academic and Experience Requirements
Education: A Master’s degree in Education Administration, Educational Leadership, Public Administration, or a closely related field from an accredited institution. A Doctorate in a relevant field is preferred.
Experience:Â At least ten (10) years of progressive experience in educational leadership, including a minimum of five (5) years in senior administrative roles such as school principal, district superintendent, or similar leadership positions. Experience in a culturally diverse education system, preferably within a Pacific Island context, is highly preferred.
Certification:Â Must possess or be eligible for certification in educational administration within American Samoa or hold equivalent credentials recognized by the American Samoa Department of Education.
Experience in Educational Policy:Â Proven ability to navigate and influence education policy, ensuring alignment with legal, regulatory, and cultural requirements.
Salary
The salary is competitive and based on experience and qualifications. Specific compensation details will be provided upon request.
Additional Information
For questions regarding the position or application process, please contact the Office of the Governor-Elect directly via email at officegovelectASG@gmail.com
*The American Samoa Government is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified candidates will be considered for political appointments without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal and territorial laws. Appointments will be made based on qualifications, experience, and the ability to serve effectively in alignment with the policies and goals of the administration.
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