SENIOR DIRECTOR FOR ADULT EDUCATION AND LITERACY

Senior Director for Adult Education and Literacy

This position provides leadership and overall administration of the Adult Education and Literacy Division. The position is responsible for the management and oversight of state and federal adult education grants; coordination of statewide instructional providers; administration of English language acquisition and adult basic and secondary education programs; and development of transition programs that support students in advancing to postsecondary education, training, and employment. The position also oversees high school equivalency testing, the Early School Leaver Transition Program, strategic planning, data collection and reporting, program monitoring, and compliance with applicable state and federal laws, regulations, and requirements. This position works collaboratively with adult education providers, advisory groups, workforce partners, and other stakeholders to strengthen program quality, improve student outcomes, and advance the statewide Adult Education and Literacy system.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Supervises assigned staff, providing direction and support to ensure high-quality data analysis, reporting, and continuous professional development.

Program Administration and Oversight

• Work with adult education (AE) deans, directors, instructors, students, and area planning councils to provide information on Adult Education and Literacy programs and services including English as a Second Language and Integrated English Literacy and Civics Education, Bridge Programs, and Integrated Education and Training.
• Administer and maintain standards for state and federal adult education grant programs.
• Oversee the Early School Leaver Transition Program, including the development of funding standards and ensure compliance with state laws.

Strategic Planning and Policy Implementation

• Update and implement the strategic plan for adult education.
• Remain knowledgeable on the Workforce Innovation Opportunities (WIOA) Act legislation and develop strategies for implementation, including development of the unified state plan.

Reporting, Data, and Program Evaluation

• Develop state and federal reports.
• Maintain and update the process for data, reporting, monitoring, program evaluation, and student follow-up within each provider area.
• Prepare informational reports about Adult Education programs and services.
• Provide leadership in the improvement of Adult Education data collection and reporting.

Advisory Groups and Stakeholder Engagement

• Establish and oversee Adult Education Advisory Groups including English Language Acquisition (ELA), Adult Basic and Secondary Education, and Professional Development and Training.
• Participate in the Advisory Groups.

Program Development and Special Initiatives

• Research and develop effective programs to smooth transitions to postsecondary education/training and employment.
• Provide leadership on special initiatives and grants.

Grant Planning and Approval Processes

• Develop, distribute, review, and approve annual Adult Education Area Plan and Request for Proposals.
• Oversee the Illinois Community College Board Adult Education course approval process.

Other Responsibilities

• Serve as a liaison between internal departments, state agencies, and external partners to promote effective communication, collaboration, and alignment with organizational goals.
• Perform other duties as assigned, which may include travel.

Leadership Responsibilities as Identified Under WIOA Section 223

• Coordinate the statewide instruction of Adult Education and Literacy.
• Monitor programs to ensure compliance with federal and state legislation and regulations.
• Oversee the regional adult education center and other leadership activities.
• Provide training as needed to Adult Education programs relative to instruction, standards, etc.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree.
• A total of three (3) years (36 months) in education, training and/or work experience English language acquisition, adult basic and secondary education, or related work. (Note: Master’s Degree in an area consistent with the duties of the position may be substituted for one (1) year of work experience.)
• Demonstrated oral and written communication, human relations, and analytical skills.
• Established effective working relationships with co-workers, officials, and colleagues.
• Demonstrated experience developing and delivering presentations, training, or technical information to diverse audiences, including administrators, instructional staff, program providers, or other stakeholders.
• Two years’ supervisory experience.

Additional Desired Qualifications

• Master's degree.
• Seven years' experience in higher education administration, community college academics, English language acquisition and adult education instruction or administration or related experience.
• Experience with, or adequate knowledge of, the Illinois Community College System and Adult Education and Literacy System.

State Universities Civil Service System Title

Program Director - 5003