Commissioner of Education – Topeka, KS

Job Description

 Kansas State Department of Education Commissioner of Education

The Kansas State Board of Education seeks an experienced, principled, and politically astute leader to serve as Commissioner of Education. Reporting to the elected State Board of Education, the Commissioner will lead the Kansas State Department of Education and advance policies and practices that improve outcomes for all Kansas students. 

The Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) is a dynamic, dedicated service agency that provides leadership, resources, support and accountability to the state’s K-12 education system.  KSDE administers the state’s governance of education, standards and assessments, special education services, child nutrition and wellness, title programs and services, career and technical education, and school funding. It is the goal of the agency to provide all Kansas children with equal access to a quality, high-level education that promotes student achievement and prepares all students for global success. 

The department is governed by the Kansas State Board of Education consisting of 10 elected members, each representing a district comprising four contiguous senatorial districts. Board members serve four-year terms with an overlapping schedule. The day-to-day administration of the agency is the responsibility of the Commissioner of Education, who is appointed by the Kansas State Board of Education. Each of the divisions is overseen by a Deputy Commissioner.

The Commissioner of Education has ultimate responsibility for the entire agency and directly oversees those agency functions that provide services to the entire agency, including Communications, Legal Services, Human Resources and Recognition Programs. The Office of the Commissioner in concert with the Kansas State Board of Education provides leadership and support to schools and districts throughout the state in service to students, educators, families and the wider public as well as ensure  district and school compliance with all state and federal laws, regulations and requirements.

Vision Statement: Kansas leads the world in the success of each student.

Mission Statement: To prepare Kansas students for lifelong success through rigorous, quality academic instruction, career training, and character development according to each student’s gifts and talents.

Value Statement:

• Commitment to our purpose.
• Service to others.
• Respect for self and others.
• Continual improvement through learning.

Agency Structure – the Kansas State Department of Education consists of:
Office of the Commissioner and two major divisions:

• Fiscal and Administrative Services
• Learning Services.

The Ideal Candidate

The Kansas State Board of Education seeks a leader who combines strong moral leadership, executive capacity, and deep commitment to students and to public education with the ability to navigate complex political and public environments.

Strongly Preferred Qualifications

• Principled and Courageous Leader
  Demonstrates integrity, respect for the rule of law and the Kansas Constitution, and the courage to lead based on core values—even in challenging political environments. Serves as a positive role model with maturity, confidence, and sound judgment.
• Politically Savvy and Governance-Focused
  Proven ability to work effectively with an elected board, respect governance roles, and align leadership actions with board priorities. Comfortable operating in the public arena, addressing controversy, and maintaining productive relationships with policymakers and stakeholders.
• Commitment to All Students
  A strong advocate for underrepresented students with a demonstrated record of improving outcomes and embracing the belief that all means all. Understands and values student voice, and supports meaningful parent and community engagement.
• Experience Leading Large, Complex Systems
  Successful executive leadership experience in large organizations or school systems. Ability to focus improvement efforts on both the state’s largest districts and the diverse needs of small and rural communities.
• Exceptional Communicator and Listener
  Communicates clearly and plainly, builds trust, listens well, accepts constructive criticism, and engages authentically with educators, families, students, and the public. Willing to be visible in schools and communities across the state.
• Broad Perspective and Executive Capacity
  CEO-level leadership experience, including work inside of education. Effectively leverages expert staff, takes responsibility for mistakes, and maintains a long-term strategic view.
• Credible Education Background and Forward-Looking Vision
  Strong connection to education through teaching, system leadership, or reform work. Knowledgeable about education policy, accountability, technology, and innovative school design, with awareness of national best practices and emerging models.

Additional Considerations

• Kansas roots are a plus but not required. Candidates from within or outside the state are encouraged to apply. The Board seeks a leader committed to stability, collaboration, and making a lasting difference for Kansas students.  Likewise, a doctorate in education is also a plus but not a requirement.

PLEASE INCLUDE IN YOUR FRONTLINE APPLICATION:

• Cover letter (stating interest and unique qualifications for the position). 
• Full resume/vitae.
• You may add up to five pages that show evidence of Leadership strengths.
• Contact information of three to five references who can be immediately contacted.

For questions regarding the Kansas State Department of Education Commissioner of Education search, contact any of the HYA Associates listed below; do not contact Board members:

Mike Richie, HYA Email: mikerichie@hyasearch.com

Max McGee, HYA Email: maxmcgee@hyasearch.com

Frank Henderson, HYA Email: frankhenderson@hyasearch.com 

How to apply for this job?

1. Register for an account on the HYA website. Or, log in to the HYA website if you already have an account created. Click the Login/Register button at the top of the page to get started.
2. After logging in, click the Apply Now button at the top of this page.
3. You will be redirected to the Frontline Education website. This website is where you will submit your application. This website also will require its own unique login and password.