Description

STATEMENT OF THE POSITION 

The Assistant Director for Technology shall assist in the administrative, supervisory, coordinative, developmental, and supportive services related to technology operations within the Watertown City School District. Working under the direct supervision of the Director of Instructional Technology, this position supports the planning, implementation, integration, and maintenance of district-wide technology systems, cybersecurity protocols, and innovative instructional technologies to enhance both educational and operational effectiveness. The Assistant Director shall progressively assume increased responsibilities across all areas of district technology leadership under the mentorship of the current Director, ensuring continuity of leadership, institutional knowledge transfer, and long-term sustainability of the district’s technology systems and initiatives. This role requires a strong foundation in teaching and instruction, ensuring that all technology initiatives directly support student learning, instructional practices, and the district’s Strategic Action Plan priorities, including graduation, engagement, attendance, behavioral supports, and infrastructure.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Instructional Technology & Strategic Alignment

Support the integration of instructional technology aligned with curriculum and instructional goals.
Collaborate with the Assistant Superintendent for Instruction, and building administrators to support technology-enhanced teaching and learning.
Provide training and support to staff on effective classroom technology use.
Promote innovative practices that enhance student engagement, achievement, and digital literacy.
Ensure all technology initiatives support and align with district-wide strategic priorities.
 Technology Operations & Systems

Assist in coordinating the development, implementation, and maintenance of district technology systems (hardware, software, network infrastructure).
Support installation, configuration, and maintenance of systems including servers, networks, communication systems, and instructional tools.
Monitor system performance and assist in troubleshooting and resolving technical issues.
Help manage inventory, procurement, and lifecycle of technology equipment.
Participate in oversight of day-to-day operational functions, including:

Help desk and support triage systems
Device imaging, deployment, and lifecycle management
Building-level technology support coordination
Acting as a point of contact for administrators on operational technology needs

Cybersecurity & Data Systems

Serve as co-administrator on district cybersecurity systems, with the expectation of developing into the lead role.
Assist in implementing and monitoring cybersecurity protocols and best practices.
Support staff training related to cybersecurity awareness and compliance.
Help manage user access, permissions, and security groups.
Assist in maintaining and supporting student information systems and data integrity (e.g., SchoolTool/FOCUS or equivalent).
 

Leadership Development & Succession Responsibilities

Engage in structured mentorship with the Director to develop full leadership capacity.
Participate in and progressively lead:

Technology-related Board of Education reports and presentations
District-wide technology initiatives and system implementations
Vendor coordination and external partnerships
Co-lead grant writing and pursuit of external funding opportunities.
Develop toward full supervisory responsibility, including:

Staff supervision and coordination
Hiring recommendations
Staff evaluations
Engage in long-range and strategic technology planning aligned to district needs.

Communication, Collaboration & Representation

Communicate technology updates, initiatives, and expectations to staff and stakeholders.
Serve as a liaison with BOCES, vendors, and internal departments.
Participate in committees, meetings, and district events as required.
Support public relations efforts related to technology initiatives.
 

Budget & Resource Management

Assist in monitoring technology budgets and expenditures.
Ensure purchasing aligns with district technology goals and compliance requirements.
Support grant writing and funding research (federal, state, local).

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS, BACKGROUND AND EXPERIENCE

Graduation from a regionally accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Educational Technology, or a closely related field.
Master’s degree required OR must be obtained within a defined timeframe as a condition of continued employment and eligibility for advancement to Director.
Three (3) years of experience in information technology systems, including network administration, instructional technology, or cybersecurity support.
Demonstrated background knowledge and experience in teaching and instruction (REQUIRED).
Experience working in an educational environment.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Strong understanding of:

Network systems (switches, VLANs, wireless infrastructure)
Active Directory, group policies, and user management
Cybersecurity principles and best practices
Knowledge of classroom technology integration and instructional design.
Familiarity with student information systems (e.g., SchoolTool/FOCUS).
Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Strong organizational and project management abilities.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
Demonstrated ability to collaborate within a school district culture.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

Twelve (12) months, Watertown City School District Management/Management Confidential Employees-affiliated position.

EOE