SparkLab Leader for the 2026-2027 School Year

SparkLab Leader

Principal

Open Until Filled

NATURE OF WORK: 

Lead and manage the implementation of the SparkNC initiative at White Oak High School, guiding students in the exploration of high-tech career pathways in areas such as artificial intelligence, software and game development, computer systems engineering, and cybersecurity. The SparkLab Leader operates a modern, learner-centered lab environment, designs and delivers competency-based learning experiences, and serves as a collaborative partner within SparkNC's statewide interdistrict network.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

• Working knowledge of emerging high-tech fields, including artificial intelligence, software development, cybersecurity, and computer systems engineering.
• Ability to support self-directed, learner-centered, and competency-based learning environments.
• Ability to design and deliver engaging learning experiences in in-person, blended, and virtual formats.
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with industry partners, community organizations, and post-secondary institutions.
• Ability to provide iterative, personalized feedback to students and support the development of student portfolios.
• Ability to conduct outreach to diverse student populations, including those historically underrepresented in high-tech fields.
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to coordinate technical components of lab operations, including learning platforms, hardware, and software tools.
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with students, school staff, district personnel, and external partners.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING:

• Bachelor's degree required; degree in education, computer science, information technology, or a related field preferred.
• North Carolina educator's license preferred; candidates eligible for licensure may be considered.
• Experience in K-12 education, workforce development, instructional technology, or a high-tech industry field preferred.
• Minimum 2.5 GPA required

• ETTP course completion and dated certificate must be obtained within the first school year of employment (to register for ETTP, contact ETTP@onslow.k12.nc.us)

TERM OF EMPLOYMENT:  12 months

SALARY:  State Teacher Salary Schedule

FLSA Status:  Exempt

PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Conducts outreach to students at White Oak High School to promote awareness of and participation in SparkNC, with a focus on students disproportionately impacted by COVID-19, students not engaged in traditional school settings, and populations historically underrepresented in high-tech careers.
• Designs and delivers in-person, blended, and virtual learning experiences to students at White Oak High School and, as applicable, to students across SparkNC's interdistrict network.
• Manages the day-to-day operations of the SparkLab, including scheduling, equipment maintenance, and coordination with district technology staff to ensure all hardware, software, and digital resources remain accessible and functional.
• Advises students as they explore available learning experiences, set personalized goals, and progress through SparkNC's competency-based pathways at their own pace.
• Reviews student work and provides timely, detailed, individualized feedback through SparkNC's learning platform and in person, supporting students in building a strong portfolio that demonstrates college and career readiness.
• Verifies learner understanding, validates completed work, and collaborates with district leadership and the SparkNC team to issue course credit in accordance with applicable guidelines.
• Coordinates with local and regional industry partners to design and deliver career-connected learning experiences, including internships, job shadowing, mentorships, and other real-world engagements.
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