The Montana Virtual Academy seeks an energetic leader with strong management, mentoring, and financial skills to direct a new digital educational enterprise. The director will develop strategic initiatives for a strong presence in Montana school districts and will manage the overall financial performance, condition, and viability of the MVA.

The Director, in collaboration with the MVA Governing Board, will market and build an MVA community presence; interface with principals and develop partnerships in local school districts; evaluate curricula, teaching methods, and programs; manage the financial performance of the MVA, ensure that the MVA complies with federal, state, and local regulations; recruit, hire, and train primary and supplemental staff.

The Director will be a key representative of the MVA, conducting careful planning, course development and marketing during the 2009-10 school year, including possible summer coursework. The successful candidate will create synergy between the K-12 system and the university system with strong, effective coaching and mentoring skills.

The Director will also possess advanced administrative, financial and implementation knowledge and skills, blended with strong technological proficiency in order to propel the vision and execution of the Montana Virtual Academy forward with precision and speed. S/he will also ensure content alignment with Montana education standards.

Master's degree in education or a related field (terminal degree preferred)

Working knowledge and experience with the K-12 environment

Experience in an online learning environment

Success in grant management and in obtaining extramural funding Knowledge of wage and salary administration, performance evaluation, succession planning and training Knowledge of administrative functions, with particular attention to fiscal management and professional development

The mission of the Montana Virtual Academy is to provide Montana K-12 students equitable access to high-quality, innovative, online instruction. The state of Montana, through a partnership of school districts and the University of Montana, Missoula, will ensure Montana's children are prepared for a globally competitive, 21st century environment. The initial year of MVA will emphasize high school core subject credit-recovery under the Montana accreditation and education standards; AP, dual credit, and enrichment coursework is planned for the future.

Note: This position is a one-year professional contract with possibility of renewal. Continuation of the position is contingent on funding.