Executive Director

Job Description - Executive Director )

Position Title:

Executive Director - (  )

The Montana Board of Public Education is seeking a passionate, public service-oriented Executive Director, who can effectively implement Board decisions and promote successful public education outcomes for the State of Montana.

The Board of Public Education was created by the Montana Constitution of 1972 to exercise general supervision over the elementary and secondary schools of the state. The Board consists of seven non-salaried citizens, appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate to staggered seven-year terms.

Additional information about the Montana Board of Public Education can be found by visiting our “About Us” webpage HERE.

The Board of Public Education has a mission statement as directed by the Montana Constitution, which states, "There is a board of public education to exercise general supervision over the public school system and such other public educational institutions as assigned by law". The Board of Public Education was established to supervise, serve, maintain, and strengthen Montana's system of free quality public elementary and secondary schools.

The Executive Director manages agency decisions for program proposals, determines overall direction for strategic initiatives, directs the organization and implementation of the agency, and promotes successful public education outcomes for the state of Montana.

The successful candidate must demonstrate a commitment to public education and strong leadership, change‑management, strategic planning, and public relations skills.

This position is open until filled. Applications submitted prior to September 26, 2026, will be included in the first application review.

Authorizes the overall direction of strategic program initiatives and is responsible for the implementation of agency decisions of the Board of Public Education.

Manages multiple administrative processes and personnel to support the Board of Public Education’s decision‑making processes, including ensuring compliance with policies and procedures and federal and state requirements.

Conducts research and analysis of educational issues and concerns, including those of interested parties, such as educators, parents, taxpayers, and students, to develop long‑range strategic plans to successfully implement decisions.

Manages and has oversight over the agency’s operations and personnel budget.

Responsible for authorizing, directing, and planning communication on behalf of the agency.

Responds directly to inquiries from the media, professional organizations, and the public.

Develops and manages research projects regarding teacher preparation, teacher certification, accreditation, recruitment and retention, and all other education related issues as directed either by the Board of Public Education or the Legislature.

Monitors, evaluates, integrates, and reports on national and statewide trends and emerging issues regarding public education.

Develops and revises policies and procedures, including updates to administrative rules or revising statutes, in conjunction with the Montana Legislature, as necessary.

Coordinates and facilitates significant projects on behalf of the agency involving education stakeholders and others.

Responds to inquiries from the media, professional organizations and the public in supporting the Board's role and decisions.

Advocates for the Board of Public Education's positions during the Legislative Session and related processes.

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