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Virginia Department of Education · 1 day ago

Director of New Learning Models & School Redesign

Richmond, VA

Full-time

Hybrid

Director/Executive

The Virginia Department of Education is seeking a strategic leader who can lead Virginia’s statewide efforts to transform public education through innovative, student-centered approaches. This role drives the design and implementation of new school models while cultivating partnerships to enhance educational opportunities.

E-LearningEducationHigher EducationSecondary Education

Growth Opportunities

Responsibilities

Drive the design, implementation, and scaling of new and redesigned school models—including small learning communities, schools-within-schools, and personalized, competency-based environments that prioritize student engagement, mastery, and real-world relevance

Cultivate partnerships with colleges and universities to develop and expand College Partnership Laboratory Schools, serving as hubs of innovation that pilot transformative practices for replication across the Commonwealth

Champion practical, scalable solutions that empower local educators and remove access barriers for families

Qualification

Innovative school designEducation policy knowledgeData analysisProject managementCross-sector collaborationStrategic planningDigital tools proficiencyFacilitation skillsCapacity-buildingPartnership buildingAdvocacy for accessVision articulationTrust buildingContinuous improvement focusCommunication skills

Required

Deep understanding of innovative school design models, including personalized, competency-based, and project-based learning

Familiarity with the 3E Readiness Framework (Education, Employment, Enlistment) and its application in K–12 settings

Knowledge of state and federal education policy, accountability systems, and school improvement strategies

Awareness of current trends in education innovation, including College Partnership Laboratory Schools and work-based learning

Understanding of inclusive education models that address all student needs

Knowledge of cross-sector collaboration with higher education, workforce development, and military partners

Strategic planning and systems-level thinking; lead large-scale innovation initiatives

Strong project management skills, including the ability to manage timelines, budgets, and cross-functional teams

Excellent written and verbal communication skills for diverse audiences, including educators, policymakers, and the public

Data analysis and interpretation skills to inform continuous improvement and policy development

Facilitation and professional development skills to support capacity-building among school and division leaders

Proficiency in using digital tools and platforms to support collaboration, communication, and reporting

Ability to lead and inspire innovation across diverse educational contexts

Ability to build and sustain partnerships with postsecondary institutions, employers, military branches, and community organizations

Ability to navigate complex systems and align multiple initiatives toward a shared vision

Ability to advocate for access and flexibility in public education

Ability to evaluate program effectiveness and make data-informed decisions

Ability to adapt to emerging trends and respond to evolving educational needs

Ability to articulate a compelling vision for future-ready education and mobilizes others to achieve it

Ability to build trust and consensus across the Department, sectors and stakeholder groups

Champions new ideas and approaches to transform learning environments

Ability to prioritize access and outcomes for all students

Ability to focus on measurable impact and continuous improvement

Ability to understand how policies, practices, and partnerships interact within the broader education ecosystem

Preferred

Doctorate (Ed.D. or Ph.D.) in Education, Curriculum & Instruction, Educational Innovation, or a closely related discipline

Virginia Postgraduate Professional License or equivalent

Experience designing or managing College Partnership Laboratory Schools or similar innovative school models

Background in policy development, strategic planning, or systems-level change in public education

Familiarity with Virginia's education landscape, including the 3E Readiness Framework and state-level reform efforts

Certifications in project management (e.g., PMP), education leadership (e.g., AASA National Superintendent Certification), or innovation frameworks (e.g., Design Thinking, Lean Six Sigma)