Alternative Programs Coordinator
Position Information
Organization: Wallowa County Education Service District (WCESD) Location: Enterprise, Oregon
Reports To: Superintendent or Designee FLSA Status: Exempt
Position Type: Full-Time
Position Summary
The Alternative Programs Coordinator will lead the development, implementation, and ongoing management of innovative county-wide alternative education programming operated collaboratively through Wallowa County Education Service District and component school districts. This position is responsible for designing and building a new department focused on serving diverse student needs through multiple educational pathways.
The coordinator will oversee three primary program areas: (1) an Online Hybrid Program with a strong in-person, hands-on S.T.R.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Recreation, Engineering, Art, and Math) focus integrating outdoor learning experiences; (2) a traditional alternative education program designed to support students needing flexible, supportive educational environments; and (3) future innovative educational opportunities developed to meet emerging regional needs.
This leadership position will create program structures, develop operational systems, build partnerships, hire and supervise instructional staff, and guide curriculum development and implementation for all alternative programming.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
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Design, develop, and implement a county-wide alternative education department serving all Wallowa County school districts.
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Create systems, structures, policies, and operational procedures for alternative programs.
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Develop and oversee an Online Hybrid Program integrating virtual instruction with hands-on, project-based S.T.R.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Recreation, Engineering, Art, and Math) learning.
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Integrate outdoor education, environmental literacy, and experiential learning opportunities into program design.
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Establish and manage a traditional alternative education program supporting diverse student academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs.
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Develop curriculum frameworks, instructional models, and student support systems.
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Hire, supervise, mentor, and evaluate instructional and support staff.
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Build partnerships with local schools, community organizations, outdoor education partners, workforce agencies, and post-secondary institutions.
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Coordinate student recruitment, enrollment, intervention planning, and retention efforts.
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Ensure compliance with Oregon Department of Education requirements and applicable state and federal regulations.
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Develop and monitor program budgets, grants, and funding opportunities.
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Collect and analyze program data to support continuous improvement and reporting.
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Facilitate stakeholder engagement, advisory committees, and community outreach.
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Provide leadership in developing innovative educational pathways and opportunities for students.
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Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
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Bachelor’s degree in Education, Educational Leadership, Curriculum & Instruction, or related field required.
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Valid Oregon Teaching License required.
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Administrative License or ability to obtain preferred.
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Minimum of five (5) years of experience in education, alternative education, program development, or educational leadership.
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Experience working with at-risk, underserved, or diverse student populations.
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Valid Oregon driver’s license and ability to travel throughout Wallowa County.
Preferred Qualifications
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Master’s degree in Education or related field.
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Experience developing or leading alternative education programs.
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Experience with online, blended, or hybrid learning environments.
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Knowledge of S.T.R.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Recreation, Engineering, Art, and Math)-based instructional practices and project-based learning.
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Experience integrating outdoor or experiential education into instructional programming.
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Experience supervising staff and building educational programs from inception.
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Grant writing and program management experience.
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Experience working in rural school systems and collaborative educational partnerships.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
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Strong leadership, organizational, and strategic planning skills.
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Ability to develop innovative educational programs and systems.
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Knowledge of curriculum development, instructional design, and alternative education best practices.
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Ability to build positive relationships with students, families, staff, and community partners.
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Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
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Ability to manage multiple priorities and complex projects.
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Knowledge of trauma-informed practices, student engagement strategies, and inclusive learning environments.
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Proficiency with educational technology platforms and data systems.
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Commitment to educational equity, student-centered learning, and continuous improvement.
Working Conditions
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Frequent travel throughout Wallowa County required.
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Work is performed in office, school, outdoor, and community-based settings.
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Occasional evening and weekend meetings, trainings, or events may be required.
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Position may involve outdoor activities in varying weather conditions.
Evaluation
Performance of this position will be evaluated annually in accordance with Wallowa County ESD policies and administrative procedures.
