Director, High School Innovation

Director, High School Innovation – Economic Mobility Center

About the Economic Mobility Center

The Economic Mobility Center (EMC) is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between Dallas College and the Commit Partnership focused on dramatically improving economic mobility outcomes across Dallas County. EMC works across education, workforce, and community systems to double living-wage earnings for young adults within a generation — while eliminating disparities based on race, place, and gender.

We believe transformative systems change requires bold thinking, strong partnerships, data-informed decision making, and a relentless commitment to student success.


About the Role

The Director, High School Innovation will lead the design, implementation, and scaling of innovative high school models that strengthen college readiness, workforce alignment, and long-term economic mobility outcomes for students across Dallas County.

This leader will work closely with school districts, higher education institutions, workforce organizations, and community partners to develop and expand high-impact programs that prepare students for success in both college and career pathways.

A major focus of this role includes advancing AI-driven dual credit models and supporting the development of Economic Mobility High LAB Schools — innovative campuses designed to serve as scalable models for student-centered transformation.

The ideal candidate is a strategic systems thinker who thrives in collaborative environments, builds strong relationships across sectors, and is passionate about improving outcomes for students in historically underinvested communities.


What You’ll Do

Lead Innovative Program Design & Strategy

  • Lead the strategy, development, and implementation of high school innovation initiatives aligned to EMC’s economic mobility goals
  • Oversee the expansion of AI-driven dual credit and college readiness programs
  • Support the creation and scaling of Economic Mobility High LAB Schools as demonstration sites for innovative educational practices
  • Integrate workforce-aligned “power skills” such as communication, collaboration, and problem solving into program design
  • Drive continuous improvement efforts through strategic planning and innovation

Build & Strengthen Partnerships

  • Develop strong relationships with district leaders, higher education partners, workforce organizations, and community stakeholders
  • Collaborate closely with Early College, P-TECH, Dual Credit, and workforce pathway programs
  • Serve as a trusted partner and thought leader across regional education and workforce initiatives
  • Facilitate cross-sector collaboration to expand student access to high-quality opportunities

Use Data to Drive Impact

  • Analyze student and systems-level data to identify barriers and opportunities for improvement
  • Monitor program outcomes and key performance indicators
  • Use insights and evidence to inform strategic decision making and program adjustments
  • Support a culture of accountability, learning, and measurable impact

Advance Systems Change

  • Lead root cause analysis and systems-level planning efforts related to high school-to-college transitions
  • Align initiatives with relevant state policy and funding structures, including HB3, HB5, and HB8
  • Help develop sustainable and scalable models that can influence broader systems transformation across the region

What You Bring

Required Qualifications

  • Master’s degree in Education, Educational Leadership, Public Administration, or a related field
  • Minimum of 10 years of experience in educational leadership, systems change, or related roles
  • Demonstrated success improving college readiness, postsecondary access, and workforce outcomes at scale
  • Deep knowledge of Early College, Dual Credit, P-TECH, and workforce pathway programs
  • Experience leading complex cross-functional initiatives and partnerships

Skills & Strengths

  • Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities
  • Experience using data to drive decision making and continuous improvement
  • Excellent relationship-building and stakeholder management skills
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to navigate ambiguity and lead through change
  • Passion for educational equity and economic mobility

Why Join EMC?

At EMC, you’ll have the opportunity to help shape innovative systems that improve outcomes for students and families across Dallas County. You’ll work alongside mission-driven leaders and partners committed to creating lasting impact at scale.

This role offers the opportunity to influence regional transformation, build groundbreaking models, and help redefine what’s possible for high school success and economic mobility.


Equal Opportunity Statement

The Economic Mobility Center is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourages candidates from all backgrounds and experiences to apply.


If interested, please send your resume and cover letter to Steven Bailey: [email protected]

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