Education Director

Education Director La Jolla Band of Luiseño Indians Pauma Valley, CA Job Details Full-time $60,000 - $70,000 a year 3 days ago Benefits Dental insurance 401(k) Paid time off Vision insurance Life insurance Qualifications Program management Interpersonal skills Culturally responsive teaching (DEI initiatives) Program development Education Managing budgets as an executive education administrator Education and development budget management Tribal law & regulations Senior leadership

Full Job Description Position Summary:

The Education Director serves as the senior leader responsible for planning, administering, and evaluating all educational programs on the Tribal Reservation. This role ensures that early childhood educational services reflect Tribal values, support cultural preservation, and promote academic excellence for Tribal members and the surrounding community . The Education Director oversees departmental operations, supervises staff, manages budgets, and collaborates closely with the Tribal Council, school partners, and community stakeholders. This position plays a central role in shaping the future of the Tribe's youth, strengthening cultural identity, and ensuring that education systems honor Tribal sovereignty. It's a leadership role with deep community impact.

JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 1.

Strategic Leadership:

Develop and implement a long‑term educational vision aligned with Tribal priorities, sovereignty, and cultural preservation. 2.

Program Oversight:

Direct all educational programs, including K-12 support services, higher education assistance, early childhood programs, tutoring, language revitalization, and workforce development. 3.

Budget & Grants Management:

Prepare and manage departmental budgets; oversee federal, state, and Tribal education grants; ensure compliance with reporting requirements. 4.

Staff Supervision:

Lead, mentor, and evaluate education department staff; promote professional development and high performance. 5.

Community Engagement:

Build strong relationships with Tribal families, school districts, colleges, and community partners. 6.

Policy Development:

Recommend and implement education policies; ensure alignment with Tribal law, federal regulations, and accreditation standards. 7.

Data & Reporting:

Monitor student outcomes, program effectiveness, and compliance metrics; prepare reports for Tribal Council. 8.

Cultural Integration:

Support culturally grounded curriculum, language programs, and culturally responsive teaching practices. 9.

Advocacy:

Represent the Tribe in regional and national education forums; advocate for Tribal education sovereignty and funding.

Minimum Qualifications:

1. Bachelor's degree in education, Teaching Credential, or related field. 2. 5+ years of leadership experience in education administration, curriculum and program development, Tribal programs, or school systems. 3. Demonstrated knowledge of Tribal governance, sovereignty, and culturally responsive education. 4. Experience managing budgets, grants, and multi‑program departments. 5. Strong communication, leadership, and community‑building skills. 6. Ability to pass a drug test and background check and maintain confidentiality.

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Experience working directly with Tribal communities or Native education programs. 2. Knowledge of federal programs. 3. Familiarity with Tribal language revitalization and cultural curriculum development. 4. Grant writing and data analysis expertise.

Working Conditions:

1. Work performed in an office environment with regular youth and community engagement. 2. Occasional travel for programs, conferences, trainings, and interagency meetings. May need to have or be able to obtain a passport.

INDIAN PREFERENCE POLICY

In accordance with the Indian Preference Act of 1934 (25 USC 472), preference for filling this vacancy will be given to qualified Indian candidates who present proof of eligibility for Indian Preference. Verification on BIA form 5-4432 or form Tribal ID card must be provided with the application. For the purpose of this policy, Indian/Native American is defined as an enrolled member of a federally recognized tribe.

NOTICE OF DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE REQUIREMENTS

The La Jolla Band of Luiseno Indians is committed to maintaining a drug-free working environment and to comply with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1998, 45 CFR, subpart F. The interested candidate must be able to pass a drug-screening test and maintain a drug-free and professional working environment.

Pay:

$60,000.00 - $70,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person