Job Details
| Region: | 14 |
| School District/Employer: | Abilene ISD |
| District Category/Employer: | Central Office |
| Position: | Director |
| Assignment Level: |
Area
|
| Job Title: | Director of Innovation |
| School: | Central Office |
| Campus Description: | |
| Date Posted: | 2/24/2026 |
| Deadline: | Until Filled |
| Openings: | 1 |
| Commitment: | Full Time |
| Description/Notes: | Primary Purpose: The Director of Innovation supports the successful implementation of districtwide innovation strategies and grant-funded initiatives by providing project management, compliance coordination, and cross-departmental support. Working under the direction of the Executive Director for Innovation & Program Development, this role helps ensure the timely and effective execution of innovation projects across schools and departments. The Director of Innovation facilitates communication, tracks progress on strategic initiatives, and builds the internal capacity of campuses and district teams to meet program expectations. The role may occasionally lead meetings, facilitate training, or manage short-term projects related to innovation efforts |
| Qualifications: | Qualifications: Education/Certification: Master's degree from an accredited four-year college or university Valid Mid-Management, Administrator, or Principal Certification Campus principal experience preferred Special Knowledge/Skills: Demonstrated leadership skills Ability to problem solve, think critically and manage conflicts Ability to manage budget and personnel Ability to collect, analyze and use multiple sources of data Strong organizational, communication, strategic planning and interpersonal skills Strong interest in urban education and driving improvement in student achievement Work collaboratively to build consensus while also delivering exceptional results Inspire, manage and collaborate with a wide variety of internal and external stakeholders at all levels Be flexible, resilient, and adaptable to changing priorities Major Responsibilities and Duties: Program and Grant Coordination Assist in coordinating implementation of district innovation strategies, including state and federal grant initiatives Support the development and tracking of project timelines, deliverables, and documentation Maintain up-to-date records and compliance documentation across multiple grants and programs Collaborate with campus and department teams to monitor program activities and ensure alignment with grant requirements Supervise campus personnel Cross-Departmental Collaboration and Communication Serve as a liaison between the Office of Innovation and other departments to ensure consistent messaging, timelines, and coordination Draft and maintain tools and resources to support campus and district teams (e.g., implementation guides, trackers, templates) Participate in cross-functional meetings and planning sessions to ensure cohesive execution of innovation initiatives Support and Capacity Building Assist in facilitating professional learning, technical assistance sessions, or stakeholder meetings as needed Build capacity of campus leaders and grant managers through training, coaching, supervision, and clear communication Monitor progress toward grant-related goals and prepare progress updates for district and campus leaders Innovation Planning and Execution Contribute to planning and reflection cycles for new and ongoing innovation work Support the scaling and sustainability of successful practices across multiple campuses Help align innovation strategies with district frameworks such as school redesign, HQIM, and instructional leadership Professional Learning and Growth Engage in ongoing learning related to education innovation, grant implementation, and project management Support a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration within the Office of Innovation Participate and facilitate principal and district staff development programs that improve job related skills and growth Coordinate and facilitate principal meetings for the portfolio of selected schools Demonstrate current knowledge, understanding and skills appropriate to the role of Innovation General Employment Requirements and Details Support and align work with the mission, vision, and beliefs of the district Follow and support board policies in areas of related responsibility Ensure district resources are managed effectively to maximize resources for student learning Share in the development and implementation of district action plans Actively participate in ongoing development to improve work quality and district contribution Model integrity, work ethic, and professionalism as a suitable example for Abilene ISD students Re-employment contingent upon funding and performance Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors: Tools/Equipment Used: Standard office equipment including computer and peripherals; standard instructional equipment Posture: Moderate standing; occasional kneeling, squatting, bending, and stooping Motion: Moderate walking Lifting: Regular light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds) Environment: Work inside and outside (exposure to sun, heat, cold, and inclement weather); exposure to noise Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress The Abilene ISD does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, military status, or any other basis prohibited by law. Employment decisions will be made on the basis of each applicant's job qualifications, experience, and abilities. The foregoing statements describe the general role and responsibilities assigned to this job. I understand this is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned; other duties may be assigned as needed. |
| Salary Range: | Wage/Hour Status: Exempt Pay Grade: Administrative Professional - 7 |
| Benefits: | Benefits are offered and the district pays $410.00 towards medical premium a month. |
| How To Apply: | https://www.applitrack.com/abileneisd/onlineapp/default.aspx?Category=Administration |
Contact Person:
| Name: | Charlene Ganske |
| Email: | charlene.ganske@abileneisd.org |
| Address: | P.O. Box 981 |
| City: | Abilene |
| State: | TX |
| Zip: | 79604 |
| Phone: | (325) 677-1444 |
| Fax: | (325) 794-1498 |