ORANGE UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

Coordinator, 21^st Century Innovation and Local Assessments

DEFINITION

Under general direction of the Administrative Director of Curriculum and Instruction this position is responsible for providing District-wide services and leadership in the area of 21^st Century teaching and learning, including the implementation to Common Core State Standards (CCSS), integration of digital literacy and the Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium (SBAC). The Coordinator will lead district efforts to facilitate the transition to and the implementation of the Common Core Standards for Mathematics, English Languages Arts and Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science and Technical Subjects; compile, analyze and report test and benchmark results related to the Common Core State Assessments; plan, organize and conduct professional development related to the District’s transition to the Common Core State Standards; and perform related functions and responsibilities as required.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

Innovation is the spark of insight that leads one to investigate an issue or phenomenon. This insight is usually shaped by an observation, data, creativity or a new idea. Innovation in the 21^st century is driven by a commitment to excellence and continuous improvement that is reflective and data-based; most of which is driven by curiosity, risk-taking and experimentation.  The focal point of this position is to facilitate brain-based learning theories and research with best practices to support in the design of a model that reflects a 21^st century student who is college and career ready; and can successfully promote practices that ensure students collaborate, think critical, communicate and be creative in learning. This position requires expertise in the full impact of the transition to the California Common Core State Standards (CCSS) including brain-based learning pedagogy, technology, assessment, and learner-centered learning.

Although technology should not drive teaching, technology drives change, therefore, this position requires the ability to research, find, and evaluate tools that enable teachers and leaders with the resources to ensure a 21^st century learner. This position will support the implementation of defined deeper learning that includes the implementation of the following:

1. Working with teachers and administrators in the analysis of local assessments to inform and design instruction using a balanced instructional design
2. Knowledge of informational literacy, research information and communication technology literacy, oral and written communication active listening,
3. Creativity and innovation that promotes students to express self-interest and passion in learning that illustrates the characteristics of a life-long learner

Support and build systems at school sites that prepare student to apply rigorous academic content knowledge to real-life situations. The end goal is to use data to foster each student’s ability to apply innovative solutions to complex problems and to create rigorous academic tasks for all students.

Creatively think through and collaborate with varied stakeholders on enhancing our current technology infrastructure that aligns with the demands of the CCSS. Work closely with the Educational Services Division to carefully plan and present the CCSS shift in a way that both communicates the urgency as well as provides excitement and interest focusing on teacher ownership of the initiative.

This position requires the ability to analyze issues, utilize technology, articulate educational research, and offer alternative solutions for complex tasks. This position classification performs light work that involves sitting a portion of the time, but does require walking and standing for extended periods and lifting and/or moving up to fifty (50) pounds. This position requires accurate perceiving of sound, near and far vision, depth perception, dexterity and mobility for working with educational materials and objects, and providing oral information and direction.

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable a person with a disability to perform the essential functions of the job.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Participates in the development of the District instructional goals, research, assessment instruments and instructional techniques.
• Assists school site teachers and administrators with the implementation of instructional intervention practices to increase student achievement
• Demonstrate exemplary innovative instruction for teachers through the following practices: coaching, modeling lessons, collaborative lesson planning, facilitating lesson study, and providing small and large group professional development using technology tools and best practices.
• Experience in Common Core Instructional Strategies such as questioning techniques, communication objectives, response frames, purposeful grouping, active engagement and other research-based strategies to increase level of instruction.
• Experience with using software to prepare students to use technology as tools (word processors, database managers, spreadsheets, and presentation software).
• Assist in the analysis of formative and summative assessment practices to ensure their effectiveness in monitoring achievement of the Common Core Standards.
• Plan and facilitate summer and on-going training for teachers and administrators on the implementation of the Common Core Standards and Local Assessments.
• Delivers reports and performs training utilizing a multitude of technology and data analysis tools that requires a high level of proficiency and expertise with digital resources.
• Assist in revisions and updates of the Local Assessments such as EADMS, DIBELS, SRI, SMI and other formative assessments used in the classroom to inform instruction.
• Attend Instructional Specialist Training and Professional Development Acts as a resource for the District in areas of expertise.

OTHER DUTIES

Collaborates with K-12 Curriculum and Instruction personnel to make decisions regarding student assessment, student achievement results, and planning for support to schools. Ensure that equitable access is given to curricula, instruction, and learning environments that develop their critical and creative thinking, communication and collaboration skills.

Conducts professional development and in-service training programs regarding various assessment areas for principals, teachers and staff. This position serves on various district and community advisory committees and prepares a variety of management and program evaluation reports as required.

Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

• Principles, techniques, strategies, goals and objectives of public education.?
• Methods, techniques, procedures and strategies concerning the assessment and evaluation of instructional programs and curricular methods.
• Legal mandates, policies, regulations and operational procedures pertaining to assessment and research.
• Demonstrated commitment to students and learning; experience in working with adult learners.
• Demonstrated knowledge of curriculum development and program design as related to Response to Instruction/Intervention and the Collaboration Cycle of Effective Instruction.  In-depth experience in best-practices that positively impact instruction and learning pedagogy.
• Strong experience in performance assessment.
• Excellent communication, presentation and interpersonal skills with demonstrated ability to write clearly and persuasively. ?
• Excellent organization, time management and follow-up skills; high sense of urgency; demonstrated ability to successfully handle multiple projects concurrently; ability to work with a team.?
• Strong community-building skills; experience in mentoring or coaching teachers Computer and Internet search skills.?
• Highly adaptable, able to be effective and maintain composure in fast paced environment.
• Human relations and conflict resolution strategies for working and communicating with others.
• Research and development designs, methods, strategies, processes and techniques.
• Technology-enhanced assessment, digital literacy, and technology integration in Curriculum.
• 21^st Century/Next Generation Assessment Requirements.

Ability to:

• Provide specialized resource support and coordination of creative and innovative instructional programs.
• Formulate, implement and interpret research.
• Serve as a resource to instruction and leadership personnel.
• Establish and maintain effective organization, community and public relationships.
• Communicate effectively in oral and written form with correct English usage, grammar, spelling and punctuation.?
• Understand and carry out oral and written directions with minimal accountability controls.
• Plan, organize and coordinate a variety of projects simultaneously.
• Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships.
• Operate complex technology, effectively manage new applications and integrate digital resources.

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION

Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and skill is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and skill would be:

Experience:    Five years of successful educational experience with background in educational research, curriculum, instruction and staff development and the successful completion of an administrative training program.

Education:     Master’s or higher degree from an accredited college or university in curriculum and instruction, educational administration, educational research, or a closely related field. Training beyond credential requirements in curriculum, staff development and lesson design preferred.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

Certification Requirement: 

Possession of a valid California credential authorizing service as an administrator in education.

License:         

Possession of a valid California Motor Vehicle Operator’s License.

Condition of Employment:  

Insurability by the District’s liability insurance carrier.

(Revised 02/09/15)