Company Description
KIPP Kansas City Public Schools is part of a nationwide network of free, open-enrollment, college-preparatory charter schools dedicated to preparing students in educationally underserved communities for success in college and life. Our strength as a region serves as a catalyst for empowerment, change, and hope.
Founded in 2007, KIPP Kansas City Public Schools began with KIPP Endeavor Academy, serving approximately 31 fifth-grade students. Today, we educate approximately 1,000 students from Pre-K through 12th grade, with our community continuing to expand. Together with families and communities, we strive to create joyful, academically excellent schools that equip students with the skills and confidence to pursue their chosen paths—whether college, career, or beyond—so they can lead fulfilling lives and contribute to a more just world.
Job Description
The Director of School Operations (DSO) is a critical role within the KIPP Endeavor School community. The DSO is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the school, ensuring that the facilities are well-maintained, the staff is supported, and the students have a positive and productive learning environment.
The DSO will report to the Regional Senior Director of School Operations (SDoSO) and will work closely with the school leadership team to implement the school's operations vision.
Key Responsibilities:
- School Operations Leadership & Operations Team Management
- Collaborate with the SDoSO and school leadership to implement the school's operations vision in alignment with KIPP Endeavor's academic and cultural goals.
- Collaborate with People Operations to hire, manage, coach, and develop a high-performing operations team, including front office, facilities, and vendor staff.
- Develop and implement scalable, school-wide systems, policies, and procedures that promote equity and support high academic achievement.
- Facilities Management & Vendor Oversight:
- Oversee all facilities operations, ensuring a safe, clean, and functional learning environment in compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
- Manage vendor relationships for facilities services, including property management services, custodial, and maintenance. Conduct regular inspections to ensure quality and compliance.
- Identify and implement necessary facility improvements to enhance the learning environment, improve school operations, and support the school's long-term goals.
- Student Recruitment & Enrollment
- Develop and oversee effective student recruitment strategies to fill classes and maintain enrollment.
- Supervise the enrollment, transfer, and re-enrollment processes, including file preparation and documentation.
- Oversee student enrollment and attendance reporting across all grade levels (Pk-8), ensuring accurate and timely data. Coordinate family info sessions, school tours, and the lottery/enrollment process to facilitate a smooth enrollment experience.
- Student Information, Testing, and Academic Operations Support
- Manage non-instructional operations related to State Testing and major student assessments.
- Provide efficient and effective support for academic operations, including report cards, progress reports, and transcripts.
- Partner with the Data Team to ensure the accuracy and compliance of student data.
- Student & Family Services
- Oversee all transportation aspects, including arrival/dismissal procedures, schedules, and supervision for athletics and field trips.
- Oversee the school's uniform program, ensuring that students adhere to the dress code and that uniforms are readily available.
- Manage the school's meal service program, ensuring that students have access to nutritious and affordable meals.
- Collaborate with the Data Team and school leaders on planned and emergency family communications.
- Event Coordination and Community Engagement
- Coordinate and support school events and activities, such as field trips, parent-teacher conferences, and community outreach initiatives.
- Collaborate with school leaders on planned and emergency family communications to keep parents informed and involved.
- Coordinate and support after-school programs, providing students with enriching and educational activities.
- Technology & Equipment
- Ensure student and staff access to needed technology, collaborating with the Academic Team for enhancements.
- Lead school opening/start-up processes (furniture, equipment, supplies, student services readiness).
- Manage school supply and asset inventory (computers, textbooks).
- Operational Efficiency:
- Collaborate with the Finance Team to manage the school budget, partnering with School Leaders on financial decisions.
- Develop and implement policies and procedures to ensure operational efficiency and effectiveness.
- Ensure that schools are prepared for emergencies by conducting all drills and training staff on emergency plans.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in business administration, education leadership, or a related field (Master’s degree or equivalent relevant experience preferred)
- Minimum 3-4 years of experience in school operations leadership, with a proven track record of success
- Experience working in a multi-school setting (Pre-K-12 preferred)
Additional Information
Skills and Competencies:
- Possess a deep understanding of best practices in school operations management.
- Commitment to KIPP Kansas City’s mission and values, including a deep belief in the potential of all students.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
- Ability to work collaboratively in a diverse environment
- Demonstrates a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion
- Experience working with diverse populations and promoting equity and inclusion.
- Fosters an inclusive environment for students, staff, and families
- Works effectively with colleagues and stakeholders
- Builds strong relationships within the KIPP KC community
Physical Requirements:
- The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions.
- The person in this position needs to be able to move about inside and outside the school or office throughout the workday.
- The candidate is expected to attend conferences, meetings, and training sessions both virtually and in person within the Region.
Work Environment
- Reports to work Monday-Friday.
- Hybrid: A typical school, office, or virtual environment with frequent interruptions.
Travel Requirements:
- This role requires occasional travel, ranging from 20-30%.
Compensation and Benefits:
Salary is based on years of experience, educational background, and level of expertise.