Job Title: Director of Impact

The Organization: Acelero, Inc.

Who We Are: Acelero, Inc. is a for-profit, mission-driven company that aims to improve school readiness for low-income children by both directly operating Head Start programs and offering programmatic support to other Head Start grantees.

Established in 2001, Acelero, Inc. is made up of two divisions - Acelero Learning and Shine Early Learning. Acelero Learning provides direct Head Start services to more than 5,000 children and families in four states (delegates) – New Jersey, Nevada, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. Acelero Learning’s programs have been identified as a national exemplar , a model to the nation for early childhood education, and most significantly, has demonstrated best-in-class child outcomes gains , even during the pandemic.

Shine Early Learning (Shine), established in 2009, was created to scale the dissemination and utilization of Acelero Learning’s proven tools and approaches through partnerships to other Head Start programs nationally. In the past three years, Shine has further diversified its offerings through training, technical assistance, and consultation to publicly funded early childhood systems, including the launch of SPARK Learning Labs.

Our nearly 1500-employee workforce includes 727 teachers, 156 Family Advocates, 158 middle managers (Center Directors and Coordinators), 79 senior leaders, and 39 executive leaders. Shine has partnerships in 26 states/territories throughout the country, which ranges from Head Start grantees to statewide systems.

The Current Landscape: At the forefront of educational innovation, Acelero Inc. is navigating a pivotal phase of strategic transformation, commenced in June 2021, with a clear vision to expand exponentially and dismantle inequities. Guided by the insights and leadership of a diverse and representative national Design Team, the company has meticulously crafted a new vision, mission, and core values underpinned by a robust theory of change. This strategic evolution involves a deliberate restructuring of the organizational framework, positioning Acelero Inc. to achieve its objectives, and to surpass them significantly. Central to the company's ethos is an unwavering commitment to recognize and nurture every child's potential, ensuring no child is left behind due to systemic inequalities. Acelero Inc. is steadfast in its mission to empower families, fostering their ability to advocate effectively for their children and themselves. This period of transformative growth and commitment to equity presents a unique opportunity to contribute to Acelero Inc.'s journey towards shaping a more inclusive and empowering educational landscape.

The Purpose of the Role

The Director of Impact at our organization embodies the nexus of data analysis, social equity, and strategic innovation. This individual is dedicated to not only measuring but amplifying the positive outcomes of our initiatives. By applying rigorous evaluation methodologies and leveraging in-depth data insights, they ensure our strategies are grounded in reality and inclusive excellence. In a role defined by leadership and collaboration, the Director of Impact navigates complex challenges, champions data-driven decision-making, and fosters a culture of learning and equity. They are pivotal in advancing our mission, transforming insights into actionable strategies while ensuring our practices resonate with and benefit all communities.

A Year in the Life

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Research Design & Evaluation: Lead the design and implementation of rigorous, equity-centered research and evaluation strategies to measure the effectiveness and impact of our programs.

• Data Analysis & Interpretation: Use advanced qualitative and quantitative research methods to collect, analyze, and interpret data, ensuring that interpretations center the voices and experiences of underrepresented groups.

• Stakeholder Collaboration: Engage families, communities, educators, and other stakeholders in co-designing research methods, tools, and interpretations to ensure that research is culturally responsive and community-informed.

• Impact Reporting: Regularly communicate findings, insights, and recommendations to internal and external stakeholders, using data visualization to drive continuous improvement.

• Capacity Building: Provide training and support to staff in understanding and utilizing data for program improvements, ensuring they have the knowledge and skills needed to embed equity-focused practices in their work.

• Technical Proficiency: Experienced in utilizing relevant tools and software for data analysis, such as statistical software (e.g., R or Python), data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau), and database management systems.

Position Reports To: Chief Learning & Impact Officer

Who should apply? (Requirements/competencies)

• Master’s or Ph.D. in Education, Psychology, Social Sciences, or a related field with a focus on early childhood education.

• Minimum of three (3) years of experience in research design, evaluation, and impact measurement, preferably in early childhood education settings.

• Proven expertise in advanced quantitative research methodologies; proficiency in qualitative research methodologies.

Position Manages:

• Research & Evaluation Manager

• Assessment Manager

When/Where/How Much

Start Date: Anticipated Summer 2024

Location/Travel : Remote position with travel required locally or long-distance up to 25% of the time for work-related meetings and functions.

Base Salary: The position offers a base salary range of $85,145 - $125,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Please note: The total compensation package includes health insurance, retirement benefits, etc. Specific details regarding the incentive package will be discussed during the hiring process.

INTERESTED AND READY TO TAKE THE NEXT STEPS?

For more insights about our organization and the specific role, we encourage you to delve into our FAQ.

To access the FAQ, please copy and paste the following URL into your browser:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1u8NWiQehvXnYGZTQAKQfy54cHdcacu9R/view?usp=sharing

Email Talent Acquisition Partner: recruiting@acelero.net

We are an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and healthy workplace.