Director of K-12 Pathways

What You'll Do

The Director of K-12 Pathways will help address existing pathway alignment and quality challenges by building more efficient and effective connections among K-12 schools, postsecondary institutions, and industry partners. The Director will also coordinate and oversee programs, partners and experiences to ensure regional K-12 students earn the knowledge, skills, and credentials necessary for postsecondary success and economic security.

Who You'll Work With

You will report to the Executive Director of NARWI. You will also frequently collaborate with NWA Council staff.

The K-12 Director of Pathways' primary responsibilities fall into 5 major categories:

1. K-12 Partnership Development

• Build and maintain strategic relationships with superintendents, principals, and CTE directors across NWA's 16 public school districts
• Facilitate regional collaboration among districts to develop shared, high-quality pathways that leverage economies of scale
• Coordinate with postsecondary institutions to create seamless transitions and dual enrollment opportunities
• Establish partnerships with private and charter schools where appropriate

2. Employer Engagement for K-12 Programs

• Serve as primary liaison between regional employers and K-12 education providers
• Coordinate employer involvement in career exploration, mentorship, and work-based learning experiences
• Facilitate industry input on curriculum development and skills alignment
• Secure student placement opportunities for internships, externships, and clinical experiences

3. Pathway Design and Implementation

• Lead development of regional pathway models that align with priority industry sectors
• Coordinate dual enrollment programs, industry certifications, and credentialing opportunities
• Oversee work-based learning program development including apprenticeships and internships
• Address policy, programmatic, and logistical barriers to pathway implementation

4. Program Quality and Coordination

• Establish quality standards and metrics for K-12 career pathways
• Coordinate shared resources, equipment, and facilities across districts
• Ensure pathways meet both academic standards and industry expectations

5. Data Collection and Reporting

• Establish data collection systems to track student participation, completion, and post-graduation outcomes
• Report on K-12 pathway effectiveness and return on investment for partners and students
• Use data to drive continuous improvement and program refinement

• Minimum of 6-8 years professional experience working in intermediary organizations, education systems, or workforce development programs
• Demonstrated experience leading and/or managing major K-12 or related workforce programs and initiatives, preferably initiatives spanning multiple school districts and partners
• Knowledge of career pathway development, work-based learning, and industry partnerships
• Understanding of K-12 funding mechanisms, dual enrollment, and credentialing systems
• Strong systems-thinking and creative problem solving skills, with a solutions-oriented mindset
• Well-rounded interpersonal skillset, with the presence and capacity to build relationships, work effectively in teams, and engage in productive problem-solving
• Proven track record of leading a diverse set of stakeholders around a shared vision and building enduring partnerships, with a strong ability to effectively and diplomatically manage different perspectives and personalities
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, including active listening and relationship-building skills
• Ability to travel regionally as needed

The Director of K-12 Pathways must live within commutable distance of Northwest Arkansas or relocate to the region. Generous relocation and onboarding support will be provided.

For more information on the region and its unique communities, visit Finding NWA.

Compensation

The salary range for this position is $150K - $185K annually. Additionally, the NWA Council offers comprehensive benefits and relocation support.

The NWA Council is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without unlawful discrimination based on race, color, creed, national origin, sex, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, military status, prior record of arrest or conviction, or current employment status.