Director of Strategic Partnerships - Vacancy ID: 249638
Closed Vacancy
Vacancy Details
Director of Strategic Partnerships
Elkhorn Area School District
1
Open until filled
Contact
Jodi Essman
Administrative Assistant
262-741-9131
Position Details
As soon as possible
Commensurate with experience, credentials, and market
Full time, 260 day contract
Full Time
The Elkhorn Area School District is currently accepting applications for the position of Director of Strategic Partnerships. The Director of Strategic Partnerships will lead the development and management of external relationships that support the Elkhorn Area School District’s mission and strategic goals. This position is responsible for cultivating partnerships with businesses, nonprofits, higher education institutions, and community organizations to strengthen workforce development, student readiness, and program innovation.
Reporting directly to the District Administrator, the Director will advance Elkhorn’s vision for career-connected learning, oversee Youth Apprenticeship (YA) and Transition Services, and manage key grants that sustain and grow these initiatives.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Strategic Partnerships
- Serve as a liaison to economic development organizations and community partners.
- Lead, manage, and expand partnership programs aligned with district goals.
- Recruit and engage employers for Youth Apprenticeship and work-based learning opportunities.
- Represent EASD on relevant regional technical college councils and planning committees, including the “Build My Future” initiative.
- Assist the superintendent with any other duties as assigned.
School-to-Work & Career Development
- Oversee the EASD Youth Apprenticeship program, serving as the primary point of contact for employers.
- Market and brand both the district and the YA program to prospective partners.
- Identify and engage new employers to expand work-based learning pathways.
- Oversee the Craftsmen With Character Program.
- Manage related data, budgets, and grants to ensure sustainability.
Transition Services
- Lead the EASD Transition Services program for students with unique abilities and needs.
- Collaborate across departments and with countywide committees to ensure student access to services and post-secondary opportunities.
- Act as a connector between staff, students, and partner agencies.
System & Program Management
- Supervise CTE data, Carl Perkins, and CTE Incentive Grants.
- Support the Career & Technical Education Department at Elkhorn Area High School.
- Collaborate with charter schools in applying the Redefining Ready Model and Dashboard.
- Manage multiple program budgets and ensure the CTE facilities are up to date.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Education, Business, or related field required.
- Master’s degree preferred.
- Career and Technical Education Coordinator.
Experience & Skills
- Minimum of 3 years’ experience in education, workforce development, or related areas.
- Proven success in program coordination and stakeholder engagement.
- Strong organizational and project management skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
- Knowledge of work-based learning models and Wisconsin DPI frameworks preferred
ABOUT THE ELKHORN AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
The Elkhorn Area School District (EASD) serves approximately 3,500 students in PreK–12 and stands by the motto “Tradition. Innovation. Distinction.” EASD has earned recognition across Wisconsin for its innovative approach to college and career readiness, its commitment to hands-on learning, and its strong community partnerships.
- Career Readiness Leader: Elkhorn Area High School recently ranked #1 in Wisconsin for dual-credit credentials earned prior to graduation—reflecting the district’s dedication to preparing students for college and the workforce.
- Innovation in Action: The district has secured state and private grants, such as the Youth Build grant, Charter Expansion Grants, New Charter School Grants, and Community Learning Center Grants, etc, to expand STEM and technical education opportunities.
- Community and Collaboration: EASD maintains active partnerships with businesses, technical colleges, and workforce organizations to create authentic learning experiences for all students.
- Student-Centered Focus: Guided by the belief that “Students First” drives every decision, EASD emphasizes equity, inclusion, and access to meaningful opportunities for every learner.
WHY JOIN EASD?
- Lead a district recognized statewide for innovation and excellence in career-based education.
- Collaborate with progressive educators, business leaders, and policymakers to shape student futures.
- Enjoy a supportive community and a district culture that values creativity, partnership, and continuous learning.
- Make an immediate impact on students’ college and career readiness pathways.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
Candidates who receive a conditional offer of employment with the Elkhorn Area School District must successfully complete a background check, physical and tuberculosis test, and drug screening. Employment is contingent upon verification of work eligibility through E-Verify.
Candidate Requirements
0
Bachelor
- Cover Letter
- Resume
- Letters of Recommendation
- Transcripts & Licenses/Certifications