Executive Director of Alternative Programs

Executive Director of Alternative Programs

Reports To: Assistant Superintendent of School Innovation and Student Development

Job Summary:

The Executive Director of Alternative Programs provides visionary leadership and operational oversight for the district’s alternative education offerings, including Raven, Aspire, Virtual Academy, T3 (Trauma-Informed Therapeutic Teaching), and the Day Treatment Center. This role ensures high-quality instruction, supports student achievement, fosters safe and supportive environments, and aligns program operations with district goals and regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership and Program Oversight:

• Oversee the strategic planning, daily operations, and continuous improvement of all alternative education programs.
• Supervise and evaluate program directors, administrators, and staff.
• Serve as building-level administrator for the Flexible Learning Center, including responsibility for facilities and maintenance coordination.
• Lead program alignment efforts to ensure each initiative reflects district mission, equity goals, and strategic priorities.

Instructional Leadership and Student Support:

• Promote a culture of high expectations, equity, and academic success for all students.
• Ensure alignment of curriculum, instruction, and assessment with state and district standards.
• Support teachers through professional development, PLCs, coaching, and collaboration.
• Guide re-entry planning and transition strategies for students moving between alternative and traditional school settings.
• Collaborate with the Department of Instruction and the Director of Mental Health to integrate counseling and therapeutic services.

School Safety and Climate:

• Administer and ensure compliance with district, state, and federal school safety regulations.
• Establish and reinforce standards for positive student behavior and respectful conflict resolution.
• Foster a caring school climate through family engagement, culturally responsive practices, and student-centered supports.

Data-Driven Planning and Accountability:

• Lead the development and evaluation of data-informed school improvement plans.
• Monitor academic performance, attendance, behavioral trends, and other key metrics.

Evaluate program effectiveness and identify areas for innovation and refinement.

Fiscal and Resource Management:

• Develop, manage, and monitor program budgets to ensure responsible use of funds.
• Oversee the implementation and compliance of federal and state grant funding.
• Write and manage grants to support alternative program initiatives.
• Coordinate with external vendors and partners, including SFE and the Boys and Girls Club.

Collaboration and Communication:

• Act as liaison between alternative programs, district departments, families, and the community.
• Facilitate communication with stakeholders through meetings, reports, and presentations.
• Represent the district in forums that promote alternative education and community partnerships.

Administrative Duties and Special Projects:

• Chair and participate in district committees (e.g., curriculum, safety, equity).
• Maintain an updated schedule of school site visits and monitor building-level operations.
• Delegate tasks effectively to ensure efficiency and alignment with strategic goals.
• Perform other duties as assigned by district leadership.

Qualifications:

* Education: Master’s degree in educational leadership, administration, or related field.

* Certification: Valid South Carolina certification in secondary administration or ability to obtain.

* Experience: Proven experience in school or program leadership, with increasing levels of responsibility in alternative education preferred.

* Clearances: Satisfactory SLED background check and strong references from current and former employers.

Skills and Competencies:

• Strong leadership, decision-making, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to manage complex educational systems and diverse programs.
• Proficiency in data analysis, budgeting, educational law, and program evaluation.
• Commitment to equity, inclusion, and trauma-informed education practices.

FLSA Status: Exempt

Outstanding references from current and former supervisors

Satisfactory SLED (SC Law Enforcement Division) report

Salary Range: Executive Director

Length of Contract: 12 months

Deadline for application: Applications will be accepted until the position is filled

Starting Date: 2025-2026 School Year

College transcripts, three references, and a copy of appropriate credentials should also be submitted during the application process.

Prior to employment, the District will request a criminal record history check for past action of crimes. For this reason, information about date of birth, gender, and race is requested as a part of the application process.