District IT Department Manager

The District IT Department Manager provides strategic leadership and vision for the planning, development, implementation, and management of all information technology (IT) and educational technology initiatives for the district. This role ensures that the district’s digital infrastructure is secure, reliable, and optimized to support both administrative operations and a 21st-century K-12 learning environment.

As a key member of the district leadership team, you will collaborate with the Berrien Regional Education Service Agency (RESA) and local stakeholders to ensure the district remains at the forefront of instructional innovation while maintaining rigorous data privacy standards.

• Develop and execute a multi-year District Technology Plan aligned with the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) standards and district instructional goals.
• Serve as the primary advisor to the Superintendent and Board of Education on emerging technology trends, risks, and investments.
• Manage the district technology budget, including capital outlay, and maximize funding through the E-rate program and state/federal grants.

• Oversee the design, maintenance, and security of the district-wide area network (WAN), local area networks (LAN), wireless systems, and server architecture.
• Manage the lifecycle of all hardware, including 1:1 student device programs (e.g., Chromebooks, iPads), staff laptops, and interactive classroom displays.
• Ensure 24/7 reliability of critical systems:
  Student Information Systems (SIS), VoIP phone systems, security cameras, and physical access controls.

• Partner with the Director of Academics to evaluate and implement software/platforms that enhance student engagement and personalized learning.
• Coordinate professional development for teachers and staff to ensure effective use of the Google Workspace for Education ecosystem and other digital tools.

• Serve as the district’s lead on cybersecurity, implementing robust firewalls, threat detection, and disaster recovery protocols.
• Ensure strict compliance with FERPA, COPPA, and Michigan-specific data privacy laws.
• Develop and lead  Digital Citizenship  initiatives for students and staff.

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field, or commensurate relevant experience;
Master’s degree preferred.

Experience:

5+ years of progressive IT experience, with at least 3 years in a leadership or supervisory role, preferably within a K-12 or public sector environment.

Certifications:

CETL (Certified Education Technology Leader) preferred;
Microsoft, Google, or Cisco certifications (e.g., CCNA, CompTIA Security+) are a plus.

Technical Proficiency:

Deep knowledge of networking, cloud computing (Google/Azure), MDM (Mobile Device Management), and cybersecurity frameworks.

Local Knowledge:

Familiarity with the Berrien RESA service model and Michigan’s MICIP (Michigan Integrated Continuous Improvement Process) is highly desirable.

Primarily office-based, but requires travel to various school buildings within the district.

260-day contract; 40 hours per week

Salary based on education and experience pursuant to the Benton Harbor Area School Board policies and collective bargaining agreement for any position that falls under collective bargaining.

EVALUATION:
The performance of this job will be evaluated by the Superintendent

Comprehensive package including health, dental, and vision; membership in the Michigan Public School Employees’ Retirement System (MPSERS).

Physical Demands:
Ability to occasionally lift/move technology equipment (up to 30 lbs) and navigate facility spaces (e.g., server rooms, wiring closets).

Benton Harbor Area Schools provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.