Senior Director of Student Experiences & Community Engagement

Company Description

About KIPP Kansas City Public Schools:

KIPP Kansas City Public Schools is part of a nationwide network of free, open-enrollment, college-preparatory charter schools dedicated to preparing students in educationally underserved communities for success in college and life. Our strength as a region serves as a catalyst for empowerment, change, and hope.

Founded in 2007, KIPP Kansas City Public Schools began with KIPP Endeavor Academy, serving approximately 31 fifth-grade students. Today, we educate approximately 1,000 students from Pre-K through 12th grade, with our community continuing to expand. Together with families and communities, we strive to create joyful, academically excellent schools that equip students with the skills and confidence to pursue their chosen paths—whether college, career, or beyond—so they can lead fulfilling lives and contribute to a more just world.

Job Description

Position Overview:

The Senior Director of Student Experiences & Community Engagement at KIPP Kansas City is responsible for fostering student engagement and building strong, collaborative relationships between KIPP Kansas City, students, families, and the broader community. This leader will design and implement innovative programs that enhance student experiences, support family involvement, and promote community partnerships that enrich student learning and growth. Reporting to the Managing Director of Academics and Innovation, this role will work closely with school leaders, students, and families to create a vibrant, inclusive, and supportive school culture.

Key Responsibilities: 

• Student Engagement and Development

  • Lead the development and execution of programs and initiatives that enhance the student experience, including extracurricular activities, clubs, leadership development programs, and community service projects.
  • Collaborate with academic leaders to align student engagement initiatives with KIPP Kansas City’s mission and academic goals, ensuring a holistic approach to student development.
  • Coordinate large-scale student events, such as student leadership conferences, college and career fairs, and cultural events, ensuring alignment with regional priorities and values.

• Family and Community Engagement

  • Establish and cultivate strong relationships with families and community partners to increase family involvement and community support for student success.
  • Design and implement family engagement programs that educate, empower, and involve families in their child’s educational journey.
  • Collaborate with community organizations, local businesses, and public agencies to create partnerships that provide resources, mentorship, and enrichment opportunities for students and families.

• Program Development and Strategic Planning

  • Develop a strategic plan for student experiences and community engagement, setting annual goals and outcomes aligned with the regional vision.
  • Collaborate with school leaders and teams to assess the effectiveness of student engagement programs and community initiatives, using data to guide program improvements.
  • Create systems to track participation, measure program impact, and ensure equitable access to all student and family engagement opportunities.

• Professional Development and Team Support

  • Provide training and resources to school leaders, teachers, and staff to support student and family engagement strategies across campuses.
  • Develop and implement professional development programs that focus on culturally responsive engagement practices and effective communication with diverse families and communities.
  • Act as a mentor and leader to support staff involved in student experiences and community engagement roles.

• Advocacy and Stakeholder Communication

  • Represent KIPP Kansas City in local forums, community events, and public relations activities to promote student success and engagement initiatives.
  • Actively engage with local, state, and national stakeholders to advocate for policies and resources that support KIPP Kansas City’s students and families.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for community organizations and external partners, fostering an inclusive and collaborative approach to community engagement.

Qualifications

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Social Work, Public Relations, or a related field required; Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in student services, family/community engagement, or education program leadership, with demonstrated experience in build