Project Manager, World Languages

Position Overview

The Oklahoma State Department of Education is seeking a Project Manager to lead and support world language education programs statewide. This role involves collaboration with language organizations, delivering professional development, advising on emerging trends, and managing initiatives that align world language instruction with state standards to enhance global competence.

Key Responsibilities

• Partner with language organizations to organize professional development workshops and institutes for elementary and secondary educators focused on implementing world language standards, curriculum alignment, vertical teaming, and research-driven teaching methods.
• Conduct school visits to assess and improve world language programs, offering guidance on materials, methods, instructional techniques, and staff development.
• Deliver virtual trainings including webinars and videoconferences to ensure educators statewide have access to ongoing professional learning.
• Coordinate and manage a consortium of curriculum specialists dedicated to World Languages Other than English (WLOE), fostering educator collaboration and best practice sharing.
• Represent the department at state, regional, and national language education organizations and conferences to stay updated on current methods and to share insights.
• Advise department officials on national and international trends impacting world language education.
• Consult and represent the education department at professional, business, and community events promoting world languages and international education.
• Maintain partnerships with teacher education institutions to support alignment with state standards and address shortages in world language educators.
• Serve as the primary contact for international guest teacher programs, coordinating certification processes and supporting Native American Language educators.
• Oversee the WLOE website and manage communications to disseminate resources and information to educators.
• Lead the periodic (six-year) review and update of world language standards in tandem with textbook cycles.
• Support the State Board of Education by analyzing and summarizing data regarding world languages and international education.
• Develop training materials focused on improving classroom management and culture, collaborating with curriculum specialists to enhance instruction.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a world language other than English (official transcripts required upon hiring).
• Valid Oklahoma teaching certification in a world language other than English.
• Minimum of four years' experience teaching or coordinating world language instruction in PK-12 settings.

Additional Requirements

• Authorization to work in the United States on a full-time basis without need for sponsorship.
• Successful completion of a pre-employment background check.
• Possession of a valid U.S. driver's license to support necessary travel.
• Willingness to travel occasionally (up to 10%) within and outside the state.

Physical and Cognitive Demands

• Ability to stand, reach, and bend for around half the workday.
• Frequent use of computers and office equipment such as printers and telephones (approximately 75% of the time).
• Capability to climb stairs about 25% of the time and lift up to 25 pounds.
• Strong communication, analytical, and decision-making skills required, along with the ability to focus attentively and adapt to changing circumstances.

Work Environment

This full-time role is based at the Oliver Hodge Building in Oklahoma City and requires a consistent presence onsite. Remote or hybrid working arrangements are not available.

Compensation and Benefits

• Annual salary of $67,200.
• Annual benefits allowance up to $21,934.08, adjusted by family size, usable for benefits purchases.
• Access to comprehensive insurance plans without exclusions or pre-existing condition limits.
• Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses.
• Participation in the Teacher’s Retirement System with employer contributions.
• Generous leave: 15 vacation days and 15 sick days per year during the first year.
• 11 paid holidays annually.
• Employee discounts with various vendors.
• Longevity bonuses after two years of service, continuing annually.
• Compensatory time for eligible employees.
• Employee Assistance Program availability.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The State of Oklahoma is committed to equal employment opportunity and prohibits discrimination on the basis of genetics, race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin, or disability.