Director of Digital Learning and Innovation

Reporting to the Executive Vice President of Curriculum and Innovation, and dotted line into the Vice President of Technology, the Director of Digital Learning and Innovation will be responsible for the overall vision, leadership, and execution of academic technology within Stratford School.  The Director will develop a shared vision, and define and implement a multi-year strategic plan for the comprehensive integration of technology, promoting excellence and supporting change throughout the instructional environment.  

In collaboration and partnership with the teachers, campus leaders, IT, and the school operations teams, the Director will provide guidance, consultation, and support necessary to ensure our technology best serves our students, teachers and our growing campuses.

Working closely with the curriculum and innovation team, and the academic and instruction team, this role will develop and deliver professional learning programs in using technology effectively for assessing student learning, differentiating instruction, and providing rigorous, relevant and engaging learning experiences for students. In partnership with the VP of Technology, the Director will provide consultation on the technical infrastructure that supports our robust learning strategies. As such, some technical experience and background is a requirement. 

Key Responsibilities

Digital Learning Vision and Goals 

• Inspire and lead the development, communication, and implementation of a shared vision for the comprehensive use of technology to support a digital-age education that includes information literacy, programming, design thinking, and innovative learning environments. 

• Contribute to the planning, development, communication, implementation, and evaluation of a technology-infused strategic plan across the network and at the school level. Set KPIs (key performance indicators) for both long and short-term goals.

• Seek user feedback and measure the impact and effectiveness of the strategies implemented

• Capture and share best practices/lessons learned to ensure continuous improvement; produce a learning technology dashboard (e.g., technology up-time, performance impact, campus NPS) 

• Model and nurture Stratford’s values and culture every day; lead with a spirit of continuous improvement and collaboration. Exude curiosity and joyful learning 

• Ensure that the joy of learning is evident in our classrooms and that each of us is doing our part to shape the next generation of responsible, compassionate, global citizens 

Research to Insight, Execution Excellence to Learner Outcomes

• Stay abreast of emerging education technology trends and methods, and the data research that informs their efficacy in instruction and student learning 

• Partner closely with the IT team to understand the current state of technology and capability throughout Stratford, ensure alignment with our technology roadmap and the day-to-day support of our campuses. Identify and prepare for peak demand times to ensure the strong performance of our technology infrastructure (systems, processes, and staff) 

• Design, develop, test and maintain processes and programs that support the effective use of learning technology across our campuses – including the technology roadmap, budgets, procurement, implementation, communication, training, and change management

• Continuously review the performance, security, adoption, and effectiveness of learning technology and actively manage the end-of-life process when no longer supported 

• Manage the implementation and safety of the Stratford School 1:1 device program. 

• Partner with the IT department to proactively provide a positive end-user experience and to enable positive student learning experiences.

• Chair the Stratford School Digital Learning Steering Committee, and serve in an advisory role to make recommendations on hardware, software, and application purchases. 

Professional Learning and Coaching

• Conduct needs assessments, develop technology-related professional learning programs, and evaluate the impact on instructional practice and student learning.

• Contribute to the design, develop and implement a technology-rich professional learning program that model principles of adult learning and promote digital-age best practices in teaching, learning, and assessment. 

• Provide recommendations for teacher/staff development relative to technology integration and the use of technology tools and applications in the classroom.

• Coach teachers in and model design and implementation of technology-enhanced learning experiences.

• Evaluate results of professional learning programs to determine effectiveness on deepening teacher content knowledge, improving teacher pedagogical skills and/or increasing student learning. 

Education & Professional Experience

Minimum Requirements: 

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent work experience in technology administration, and/or five years of classrooms experience with an emphasis in digital learning 

Preferred Requirements: 

• Advanced Degree in Education, Instructional Technology, with an administrative endorsement 

Professional Experience 

Demonstrated ability to manage diverse stakeholders and align on strategic plans for technical learning – and experience successfully delivering on those plans. Desired knowledge and experiences to include: 

• Computer literacy and digital citizenship

• SAMR model and ISTE Standards

• Use of technology for data collection, analysis and reporting to promote academic achievement

• Implementing, and managing school builds and retrofits, involving cabling (Cat6, Cat6a, and GPON) and wireless networks

• Implementing, and managing equipment installs and upgrades, including computers (Chromebooks, iPads, MacBook, PCs, and Desktops), interactive TVs and whiteboards, digital cameras, docking stations, 3-D printers, robotics, etc. 

• Implementing, and managing G-Suite, Google Apps for Education (GAFE), as well as Apple, Microsoft, and Android platforms

• Experience designing, creating, planning, and managing a professional development and training program for teachers that support learning

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Ability to work with multiple stakeholders (teachers, students, administration, contractors, and parents)

• Ability to relate to teachers with diverse experiences and technical capabilities

• Excellent written and oral communication skills. 

• Ability to multi-task, prioritize, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment 

• Strong technical background

Other Requirements:  The majority of the responsibilities occur in the field, requiring the clearance of all background checks, a valid driver license, and a reliable car.  Some out of town travel will be required with longer-term visits for new campus start-ups.  Moving and setting up equipment will require physical activity that includes the ability to bend, stoop, lift (up to 50-pounds) and walk extensively.