Chief of Staff – Petersburg, VA

July 12, 2024
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Job Description

Petersburg City Schools, located in Virginia, contains 7 schools and 4,178 students attending a preschool, four elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school. Its annual revenue is $55M with an operating expenses per pupil of $12,655. The student body at the schools served by Petersburg City Public Schools is 2.9% White, 88% Black, 0.5% Asian or Asian/Pacific Islander, 7.5% Hispanic/Latino, 0.2% American Indian or Alaska Native, and 0.3% Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander. 72.7% of students are eligible to participate in the federal free and reduced price meal program and 4.6% of students are English language learners.

Position Overview

The Chief of Staff to the Superintendent of Schools serves as a key strategic advisor, manager, and thought partner to the Superintendent. This role is responsible for ensuring the effective execution of the Superintendent’s vision and priorities by coordinating and aligning district initiatives, managing key projects, and facilitating communication between the Superintendent’s office, cabinet administration, and various stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities
1. Strategic Planning and Implementation:

  • Assist the Superintendent in developing and implementing strategic plans.
  • Monitor and report on progress towards strategic goals and objectives.
  • Ensure alignment of district initiatives with the Superintendent’s vision.

2. Project Management:

  • Oversee and manage key district-wide projects and initiatives.
  • Develop project plans, timelines, and deliverables.
  • Coordinate cross-departmental teams to ensure project success.

3. Communication and Coordination:

  • Serve as a primary liaison between the Superintendent’s office and various internal and external stakeholders, including the School Board, district staff, parents, community leaders, and other partners.
  • Prepare and review communications, presentations, and reports for the Superintendent.
  • Facilitate effective communication and information flow within the Superintendent’s office.

4. Policy and Program Development:

  • Assist in the development and implementation of district policies and programs.
  • Conduct research and analysis to inform policy decisions.
  • Monitor legislative and policy developments that impact the district.

5. Administrative Support:

  • Provide high-level administrative support to the Superintendent, including managing the Superintendent’s schedule, coordinating meetings, and handling correspondence.
  • Prepare agendas, briefings, and materials for meetings and events.
  • Ensure the Superintendent is well-prepared for all engagements.

6. Stakeholder Engagement:

  • Develop and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders.
  • Represent the Superintendent in meetings and events as needed.
  • Address stakeholder inquiries and concerns promptly and effectively.

7. Team Leadership and Development:

  • Lead and manage staff within the Superintendent’s office.
  • Foster a collaborative and high-performance work environment.
  • Provide mentorship and professional development opportunities for staff.

Qualifications

  • Education:
    • Bachelor’s degree in education (Master’s degree preferred), public administration, business administration, or a related field and appropriate state licensing.
  • Experience:
    • Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in education administration, public administration, or a related field.
    • Proven experience in strategic planning, project management, and policy development.
    • Experience working in a school district or educational environment is highly desirable.
  • Skills and Competencies:
    • Strong leadership and management skills.
    • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
    • Ability to think strategically and analytically.
    • Proficiency in project management and organizational skills.
    • Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion.
    • Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.

Personal Attributes

  • Integrity and Trust:
    • Demonstrates high ethical standards and integrity.
    • Maintains confidentiality and acts with discretion.
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  • Collaboration and Teamwork:
    • Works effectively with diverse groups and builds strong professional relationships.
    • Encourages collaboration and teamwork across the organization.
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  • Flexibility and Adaptability:
    • Adapts to changing priorities and demands.
    • Demonstrates resilience in the face of challenges.
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  • Commitment to Education:
    • Passionate about improving educational outcomes for all students.
    • Committed to the mission and values of the school district.

Salary in the range of $165,000
Moving Stipend Included