West Ada School District

Chief Technology Officer Shape

West Ada School District is seeking a visionary Chief Technology Officer to lead and elevate our technology systems in service of student success. This role requires a strategic leader who can see the big picture while keeping multiple priorities moving—someone who brings strong project management, clear communication, and the ability to execute with focus and follow-through.

The ideal candidate understands that technology is not the end goal, but a powerful tool to support teaching and learning. This leader will partner closely with academic and operational teams to align technology with instructional needs, ensuring our schools are equipped, supported, and positioned to deliver the best possible experience for students and staff.

Purpose

The Chief Technology Officer (CTO) provides strategic leadership, vision, and oversight for all technology systems and services across the West Ada School District. This role is responsible for ensuring reliable, secure, and innovative technology infrastructure that supports teaching, learning, operations, safety and security, and communication across all schools and departments.

The CTO leads the development and implementation of a comprehensive technology strategy aligned to the District’s Strategic Plan, ensuring effective integration of technology into instructional and operational practices. This position oversees technology services including infrastructure, cybersecurity, data systems, software applications, communication systems, and end-user support, ensuring that all systems are efficient, secure, and responsive to the needs of a large and dynamic school district.

Shape Supervision Received and Exercised

Receives general supervision from the Superintendent and works collaboratively with the executive team, other district and school leaders, staff, families and community stakeholders.

Exercises direct supervision over assigned management, supervisory, and administrative support staff.

Essential Duties

Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

Strategic Leadership and Vision

Lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of a comprehensive district-wide technology plan aligned with instructional and operational goals.
Drive innovation and ensure technology systems support student learning, staff effectiveness, and organizational efficiency.
Monitor emerging technologies, cybersecurity trends, and legislative requirements to proactively position the District for future needs.
Serve as a key advisor to the Superintendent and executive team on all technology-related matters.

Technology Infrastructure and Systems

Oversee the design, implementation, and maintenance of district-wide technology infrastructure, including networks, servers, devices, and communication systems.
Ensure high availability, reliability, and scalability of all technology systems across approximately 60 schools and district facilities.
Manage enterprise systems including student information systems, data platforms, communication tools, and instructional software.

Cybersecurity and Data Protection

Lead the District’s cybersecurity strategy, ensuring the protection of sensitive student, staff, and operational data.
Develop and implement policies, protocols, and training to mitigate cybersecurity risks and ensure compliance with state and federal regulations.
Oversee incident response planning and recovery efforts related to data security and system disruptions.

Data Systems and Information Management

Provide oversight of student information systems and data teams to ensure data accuracy, integrity, and accessibility.
Promote the effective use of data systems to support decision-making, reporting, and student success outcomes.
Ensure compliance with data privacy laws and best practices.

Technology Support and Operations

Oversee help desk operations and end-user support services to ensure timely and effective resolution of technology issues.
Establish service standards and performance metrics to ensure high-quality customer service across the District.
Ensure equitable access to technology resources for all students and staff.

Contract and Vendor Management

Oversee procurement, contract negotiation, and management of technology vendors and service providers.
Ensure contracts are aligned with district priorities, cost-effective, and deliver high-quality services.
Monitor vendor performance and maintain strong partnerships.

Collaboration and Communication

Collaborate with academic and operational leaders to ensure technology supports instructional priorities and district initiatives.
Communicate effectively with principals, staff, and stakeholders regarding technology systems, updates, and expectations.
Serve as a liaison to the Board of Trustees and community on technology initiatives and investments.

Shape

Supervisory Responsibilities:

Directly supervise Directors, Managers, and Coordinators within the Technology Department, including infrastructure, cybersecurity, data systems, and support services.
Provide leadership and direction to technology staff across the district.
Evaluate assigned personnel in accordance with District policies and procedures.

Minimum Qualifications

Knowledge of:

Principles and practices of information technology systems, infrastructure, and cybersecurity.
Data systems, student information systems, and enterprise software platforms.
Project management, contract administration, and vendor management practices.
Applicable federal and state laws related to data privacy, cybersecurity, and public education systems.
Leadership and organizational management practices.

Ability to:

Plan, direct, and manage large-scale technology systems and projects in a complex organization.
Lead and develop high-performing teams.
Analyze complex problems, evaluate alternatives, and implement effective solutions.
Communicate clearly and effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholders.
Build strong relationships and collaborate across departments and schools.
Balance innovation with operational stability and security.
Maintain regular attendance and adhere to prescribed work schedule.

Qualifications

Any equivalent combination of experience and training would provide the required knowledge and abilities necessary to perform the work.

Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Educational Technology, Educational Leadership or related field required; Master’s degree preferred.
Minimum of ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in leadership, with at least five (5) years in a management or executive leadership; technology preferred.
Experience in K–12 education or large public sector organizations preferred.
Demonstrated experience in cybersecurity, infrastructure management, and enterprise systems.
Must have valid Idaho driver’s license and provide own transportation for job related activities; job-related travel during the day will be reimbursed at the approved state mileage reimbursement rate.

Essential Physical Abilities

Sufficient clarity of speech and hearing, with or without reasonable accommodation, to understand verbal instructions and communicate effectively in person and by phone.
Sufficient visual acuity, with or without reasonable accommodation, to comprehend written instructions and review, evaluate, and prepare various documents.
Sufficient manual dexterity, with or without reasonable accommodation, to operate standard office equipment and a personal computer, and make adjustments to equipment.
Sufficient personal mobility, flexibility, and physical reflexes, with or without reasonable accommodation, to lift up to 30 pounds, sit and work at a keyboard for extended periods, and function effectively in an office environment.
Frequent travel within the District is required; occasional travel outside of the District for conferences, training, or meetings may be required.
May occasionally require evening and weekend hours to attend meetings or special events.

Evaluation

Yearly by supervisor

Terms of Employment

230-day working calendar; exempt position.
Regular attendance is an essential function of this job.
Per Idaho Code 65-5-1/65-503: “Eligible veterans are provided advantages in public employment in Idaho...”

Approved: RS 4-20-26