Academies Director

Academics Director

Guadalupe Centers Charter Schools (GCCS) serves more than 1600 students from PreK12 and is a free open-enrollment public charter school system located in Kansas City Missouri. Over 97% of our students identify as Latinx and many are bilingual or English learners. Our network includes Guadalupe Centers Elementary School Guadalupe Centers Middle School and Guadalupe Centers High School.

GCCS grew out of Guadalupe Centers educational programs part of the longest continuously operating agency serving the Latinx community in the United States since 1919. Our deep community roots shape our mission: to prepare all students academically socially and emotionally for college career and life success.

Why Work at GCCS

Students & Families:
Our teachers form strong relationships with students and families through a community-driven approach. The connection between our schools and Guadalupe Centers historic mission fosters trust and collaboration that support student success.

Staff Autonomy:
GCCS teachers are empowered to innovate. We value professional judgment and encourage creative research-based classroom practices that meet the needs of diverse learners.

Coaching & Development:
Each staff member collaborates with their instructional coach and building leadership to set annual professional growth goals aligned to district priorities. Our development model focuses on reflection collaboration and continuous learning.

Competitive Benefits:

• Competitive salary aligned to experience and certification level
• Relocation stipend (for qualifying hires)
• Bilingual stipend (Spanish-speaking staff)
• Tuition reimbursement for continued education (up to lifetime cap per GCCS policy)
• Mental health and well-being support through expanded employee assistance and wellness programs
• 403(b) retirement match up to 5% (for eligible staff)
• Perfect attendance incentive program (up to $1600 annually)
• Comprehensive health dental and vision coverage

Summary

The Academies Director provides districtwide leadership for College and Career Readiness career academies and career pathways across PreK12. This role designs leads and sustains a coherent system of career pathways and Work-Based Learning experiences aligned to Missouri DESE Career and Technical Education (CTE) frameworks regional workforce needs and district priorities.

The Academics Director ensures all students have equitable access to high-quality career exploration preparation and training opportunities including the attainment of industry-recognized credentials and market value assets.

Reports to: Assistant Superintendent
Work Location: Districtwide (Elementary Middle High School)

Key Responsibilities

• Lead districtwide College and Career Readiness career academies and pathway development aligned to Missouri DESE CTE standards and Programs of Study.
• Ensure vertical alignment of career awareness exploration preparation and training across PreK12.
• Oversee development and implementation of a districtwide Work-Based Learning continuum including internships job shadows industry projects and apprenticeships.
• Build and maintain partnerships with employers higher education institutions workforce agencies and community organizations.
• Support student attainment of industry-recognized credentials certifications and market value assets.
• Provide professional learning and support to school leaders teachers and counselors to embed career readiness across instruction.
• Monitor program effectiveness through data collection reporting and continuous improvement aligned with DESE requirements.
• Ensure compliance with state CTE reporting accountability and program quality expectations.
• Prepare reports and updates for district leadership the Board of Directors and community stakeholders.
• Support grant development and management related to College and Career Readiness initiatives.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Masters Degree in Educational Leadership Administration Curriculum and Instruction or related field preferred
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in education including leadership roles
• Knowledge of Career and Technical Education career pathways and Work-Based Learning
• Strong communication collaboration and organizational skills
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and external partnerships
• Bilingual (English required; Spanish preferred)
• Experience in an urban school setting preferred

Physical Requirements

• Ability to move throughout school buildings and community sites
• Ability to lift up to 15 pounds
• Ability to attend meetings and events outside regular school hours as needed

Application Process:

Please complete an online application athttps:// Attach your resume cover letter transcripts and certification (if applicable).

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

Guadalupe Centers Charter Schools (GCCS) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We strongly encourage applications from women minorities veterans and individuals with disabilities. We do not discriminate based on race color religion gender national origin age disability genetic information sexual orientation or veteran status. We also prohibit retaliation against individuals who bring forward complaints or participate in investigations of discrimination.

Required Experience:

Director