Education Program Specialist

Job Description

PLEASE ATTACH THE ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS LISTED AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS PAGE

Job ID: 31272
Agency: Education
Location:Pierre, SDSalary: $27.49-$28.86/hr, depending on qualifications
Pay Grade: J
Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Do you thrive on making a difference in the lives of students-especially those who need it most? Are you energized by collaborating with educators and creating professional learning experiences that drive change?

The South Dakota Department of Education is seeking a passionate, proactive Education Program Specialist to join our Office of Title Programs-a team committed to supporting schools and districts serving high-poverty and at-risk student populations.

We're looking for someone who is motivated, mission-driven, and ready to roll up their sleeves to help schools close achievement gaps and lift up learners who need extra support. If you're someone who's equally at home analyzing data as you are leading a dynamic training session, we want to hear from you.

What You'll Do:
As a Title Programs Education Specialist, you'll partner with schools and districts to improve academic outcomes for students who are struggling or performing below grade level in areas such as math and English Language Arts. You'll also have the opportunity to provide high-impact professional development to educators and administrators-both virtually and in person. Furthermore, you'll ensure schools meet federal requirements by:

• reviewing and approving federal funding applications;
• conducting on-site and virtual compliance monitoring;
• analyzing data and using insights to guide program improvements;
• managing budgets and determining the appropriate use of federal funds;
• interpreting and applying state and federal education laws and policies;
• providing on-going technical assistance and training to educators and administrators.

You'll work closely with a dedicated, collaborative team and engage with district leaders, educators, and national partners to strengthen support systems for South Dakota's most vulnerable students.

Who You Are:

• A strong communicator and relationship-builder.
• A thoughtful decision-maker who thrives in both independent and collaborative settings.
• Passionate about education and committed to student success.
• Experienced in program oversight, training development, or education leadership (bonus points for experience in Title programs or working with underserved student populations).

Some in-state and occasional out-of-state travel is required.

This is a Full-Time 40 Hours Weekly position with the Department of Education. For more information on the Department of Education - Office of Title Programs, please visit https://doe.sd.gov/title/index.aspx .

The Ideal Candidate Will Have:

Minimum of BS in Education preferred.

Knowledge of:

• the role and responsibilities of a state educational agency, including key processes and systems;
• federal and state laws, regulations, and policies governing education programs and grant administration;
• current trends and emerging issues in education at both the state and national levels;
• strategies for meaningful family and community engagement in support of student learning.

Skills:

• strong written and verbal communication skills for delivering clear guidance, technical assistance, and training;
• skilled in using technology platforms for grant management, communication, and documentation;
• proficient in Microsoft Office systems, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint;
• expertise in interpreting federal statutes and regulations related to education programs;
• strong collaboration and problem-solving skills, with the ability to build consensus among stakeholders;
• attention to detail in reviewing grant applications, monitoring compliance, and managing contracts;
• skilled in assisting programs with outreach to engage families and strengthen community involvement;
• experience in developing, reviewing, and managing budgets to ensure financial compliance and program sustainability.

Ability to:

• develop and maintain professional relationships with coworkers, contractors, and education professionals to foster collaboration and support program success;
• be adaptable to work effectively in a diverse and ever-changing educational environment;
• continuously evaluate methods and processes, making adjustments as needed for improved effectiveness;
• design and deliver training sessions for program staff, administrators, school districts, and the public;
• be proficient in analyzing and utilizing data to make informed, effective decisions that improve program outcomes;
• analyze data and use it to inform decisions and improve program outcomes.

Additional Requirements: To be considered, please attach your resume.

This position is eligible for Veterans' Preference per ARSD 55:10:02:08.

NCRC: If you possess a National Career Readiness Certificate, please submit the certificate with your application. For more information on how to acquire a National Career Readiness Certificate contact a South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation Job Service Office. A certificate is not necessary to be considered.

The State of South Dakota does not sponsor work visas for new or existing employees. All persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete an Employment Eligibility Verification, Form I-9. The State of South Dakota as an employer will be using E-Verify to complete employment eligibility verification upon hire.

The State of South Dakota offers $0 premium employee health insurance option plus eleven paid holidays, generous vacation and sick leave accrual, dental, vision, and other insurance options, and retirement benefits. You can view our benefits information at https://bhr.sd.gov/job-seekers/work-for-state-government/ . This position is a member of Class A retirement under SDRS.

Must apply online: https://gen-stateofsouthdako-trn.inforcloudsuite.com/hcm/xmlhttp/shorturl.do?key=1JX
You must apply online, emailed resumes or submissions will not be accepted.
South Dakota Bureau of Human Resources
Telephone: 605.773.3148 Email: careers@state.sd.us
http://bhr.sd.gov/workforus
"An Equal Opportunity Employer"

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