Chief Information Officer

Description

The Chief Information Officer (CIO) provides strategic leadership and innovation in the integration, implementation, and management of instructional, operational, and infrastructure technology across Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS). This role ensures that technology supports and enhances teaching, learning, and operational efficiency across the division. The CIO will lead efforts in modernizing IT services, integrating AI-driven solutions, and implementing cutting-edge technologies to advance the district's mission, strategic goals of equitable and innovative education.

In collaboration with district leadership, staff, students, and the community, the CIO leads transformative technology initiatives, ensuring alignment with educational best practices, operational efficiency, and cybersecurity standards. The CIO also oversees the district's digital transformation, ensuring that ACPS remains at the forefront of modern and emerging technologies to enhance student learning, streamline operations, and strengthen data security.

The Chief Information Officer (CIO) provides strategic leadership and innovation in the integration, implementation, and management of instructional, operational, and infrastructure technology across Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS). This role ensures that technology supports and enhances teaching, learning, and operational efficiency across the division. The CIO will lead efforts in modernizing IT services, integrating AI-driven solutions, and implementing cutting-edge technologies to advance the district's mission, strategic goals of equitable and innovative education.

Qualifications

Education: Master's degree in Educational Technology, Information Systems, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field required.

Certificates & Licenses: IT leadership certifications preferred (CETL, PMP, CISSP, ITIL). Cybersecurity and data privacy certifications are a plus (CISM, CCSP, or similar).

Experience: Progressive leadership experience in technology management, digital infrastructure, and cybersecurity in a K-12, higher education, or government setting. At least five years of administrative experience at a Central Office or executive level. Demonstrated success in implementing large-scale technology initiatives, data-driven decision-making, and cross-functional collaboration.

Key Competencies: HR Technology and Workforce Planning: Support recruitment, professional development, and talent management through innovative HR technology solutions. Ability to drive innovation in educational technology, including 1:1 device programs, cloud-based solutions, and digital equity initiatives. Experience managing large-scale IT budgets, vendor negotiations, and cross-functional technology teams. Cybersecurity & Data Privacy: Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local data security laws, mitigating cyber threats and ensuring student data protection. Equitable Access & Digital Inclusion: Develop policies and programs that bridge the digital divide, ensuring all students and staff have access to high-quality technology.

Core Responsibilities

Strategic Technology Leadership & Digital Transformation

• Partner with instructional leaders to embed technology into curriculum, assessment, and teacher training.
• Partner with instructional leaders to enhance blended learning models, digital literacy, and ed-tech integration.
• Lead AI and digital innovation efforts, ensuring ACPS remains at the forefront of educational technology advancements.
• Oversee cloud computing, IT infrastructure, and enterprise systems to ensure scalability, security, and efficiency.
• Evaluate emerging technologies, including AI, machine learning, and automation, for their impact on education and district operations.
• Oversee the implementation of personalized learning technologies, AI-driven tools, and digital learning platforms.
• Lead professional development initiatives to ensure that all staff have the necessary skills to leverage technology effectively.
• Provide strategic guidance on IT modernization, cybersecurity, and digital infrastructure across schools and administrative offices.
• Ensure technology solutions align with the division's HR and payroll systems, optimizing workflow efficiencies.

Cybersecurity, Data Governance & Compliance

• Establish robust cybersecurity protocols to safeguard student, staff, and district data from cyber threats.
• Ensure ACPS remains compliant with FERPA, COPPA, CIPA, and other federal and state regulations regarding data privacy and security.
• Implement data analytics and business intelligence tools to support strategic planning and HR decision-making.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations regarding data security and privacy.
• Implement AI-driven security measures, including real-time threat detection and automated incident response.
• Oversee business continuity and disaster recovery plans to ensure minimal disruption in the event of cyber incidents or infrastructure failures.

AI & Data-Driven Decision-Making

• Establish an AI and data analytics strategy to drive student performance insights, operational efficiencies, and predictive analytics.
• Support personalized learning initiatives by leveraging AI-driven adaptive learning platforms.
• Utilize big data and AI models to enhance resource allocation, transportation logistics, and HR analytics.

Budgeting, Vendor Management & IT Operations

• Develop and oversee the technology department budget, aligning financial planning with strategic priorities.

• Manage relationships with vendors, technology providers, and cloud-based services to ensure cost-effective, high-quality solutions.
• Establish performance metrics to evaluate the efficacy, equity, and ROI of technology initiatives.
• Lead technology procurement processes, ensuring alignment with HR and district-wide staffing needs.

Additional Responsibilities

• Serve as a liaison between HR, operations, and instructional leadership teams to ensure seamless technology integration.
• Represent ACPS in regional and national technology forums, ensuring alignment with Northern Virginia and DMV-area education technology trends.
• Lead technology staff recruitment, supervision, and professional development initiatives.
• Identify and pursue grant opportunities and alternative funding sources to support ACPS technology initiatives.
• Partner with Alexandria City officials on city-wide initiatives that impact technology access, public safety, and emergency preparedness.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to the Superintendent and School Board on all technology-related initiatives.
• Lead the development of a five-year IT roadmap, focusing on innovation, AI, cybersecurity, and infrastructure improvements.

Key Innovation Initiatives

• HR Digital Transformation: Implement AI-driven recruitment tools, workforce analytics, and employee self-service platforms.
• Modernized IT Security Framework: Deploy advanced cybersecurity solutions to protect district data and infrastructure.
• AI-Powered Learning & Automation: Integrate AI-driven personalized learning and smart automation into ACPS classrooms.
• Cloud Migration & IT Infrastructure Upgrades: Advance cloud computing, mobile accessibility, and real-time data analytics.
• Comprehensive Digital Equity Plan: Expand Wi-Fi access, 1:1 device programs, and assistive technologies for underserved communities.

Clearances

• Criminal Justice Fingerprint/Background Clearance.
• Tuberculosis Skin Test.

WP