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Policy Director

National Association of Charter School Authorizers (NACSA)

Location: Chicago preferred, but negotiable. Periodic travel expected.

Responsibilities:
The Policy Director will lead the development of NACSA’s state and national policy agenda and NACSA’s policy advocacy nationwide. This will include developing model charter-authorizing legislation and policies concerning topics such as charter application requirements, renewal of charters, “fresh-start” school restructuring, and effective ways for charter schools to provide special education under the law. NACSA will take proactive and aggressive positions when warranted. Day-to-day responsibilities will include legislative and policy analysis, writing for diverse audiences, and speaking effectively before both large and small groups, in settings ranging from legislative hearings to education conferences.

The Policy Director will lead NACSA’s analysis, advocacy and relationships in three areas:

• State legislation
• Monitor and analyze state charter legislation, policies and proposals pertaining to charter authorizing; provide relevant information to legislators; lead NACSA’s response to key bills (such as initiatives to create alternative authorizers or increase accountability standards); testify as needed.
• In NACSA’s identified Priority States, work closely with state directors and other allies to develop and implement a proactive legislative agenda.
• Federal legislation and relations
  Monitor legislation affecting charter schools; manage and implement a proactive agenda on reauthorization of the No Child Left Behind Act; monitor relevant appropriations legislation; maintain relations with appropriate U.S. Department of Education staff.
• Relationships with other education advocacy organizations
  Build and maintain positive, effective relationships and collaborations with charter advocacy organizations, general education organizations, and general policy organizations.

The Policy Director will also serve as the liaison to NACSA’s National Advisory Panel on Policy, and will direct and supervise policy interns.

The Policy Director will report to NACSA’s President and will work closely with NACSA’s leadership staff, including the Vice President for Research and Evaluation, Vice President for Communications and Director of National Activities.

Additional Qualifications:

• Graduate degree preferred (especially law, public administration, or public policy)
• At least 4 years of experience in education or social policy at the state or national level, including experience in interaction with Congress and/or state legislatures
• Excellent writing, analytical and interpersonal skills
• Strong communication, public speaking and presentation skills
• Understanding of the charter school movement, the role of charter authorizing, and relevant laws and policies
• Understanding of state legislative and regulatory processes and how to influence policymaking
• Self-directed and able to work effectively as part of a national team

How to Apply:
Send cover letter including salary requirements, resume, 3 professional references, and writing sample (approximately 5 pages) by e-mail to:
Michael R. Cernauskas, CPA
Chief Operating Officer
NACSA
jobs@charterauthorizers.org
www.charterauthorizers.org

The writing sample should be of a persuasive or analytical. Excerpts from longer pieces are acceptable. The sample should represent the applicant’s own writing (not co-authored or revised by another party). Minority candidates are encouraged to apply. No phone calls, please.

Closing Date:
Open till Filled