IT Manager - KIPP Kansas City

KIPP Kansas City Public Schools is part of a nationwide network of free, open-enrollment, college-preparatory charter schools dedicated to preparing students in educationally underserved communities for success in college and life. Our strength as a region serves as a catalyst for empowerment, change, and hope.

Founded in 2007, KIPP Kansas City Public Schools began with KIPP Endeavor Academy, serving approximately 31 fifth-grade students. Today, we educate approximately 1,000 students from Pre-K through 12th grade, with our community continuing to expand. Together with families and communities, we strive to create joyful, academically excellent schools that equip students with the skills and confidence to pursue their chosen paths—whether college, career, or beyond—so they can lead fulfilling lives and contribute to a more just world.

Position Overview:

The IT Manager will oversee all technology functions within KIPP Kansas City (KIPP KC) to ensure seamless technology integration, functionality, and support for both student and staff devices. This role involves implementing policies, managing hardware and software, and supporting IT infrastructure and cybersecurity, to enhance learning environments and operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities: 

• IT Strategy and Planning
  • Develop and implement an IT strategy aligned with KIPP KC’s goals, focusing on secure, scalable technology systems for both academic and administrative needs.
  • Oversee IT budget planning, procurement, and resource allocation.
• System Management and Maintenance
  • Manage network infrastructure, ensuring robust internet connectivity, data storage, and network security.
  • Maintain and update hardware (desktops, laptops, tablets, and interactive classroom technology) for students and staff.
  • Oversee software and applications critical to classroom learning, student information systems, and office operations.
• Support and Training
  • Provide technical support and guidance to staff and students, resolving hardware and software issues in a timely manner.
  • Conduct regular training sessions to educate staff on new software and IT policies.
  • Develop and manage a help desk ticketing system for troubleshooting and tracking IT requests.
• Policy Development and Compliance
  • Create, implement, and update IT policies, ensuring compliance with data protection regulations and best practices.
  • Establish and enforce cybersecurity protocols to safeguard data and minimize risks.
  • Coordinate with school leaders on digital citizenship initiatives, educating students on safe technology use.
• Team Management (forthcoming) 
  • Lead and mentor the IT support team, setting clear goals and performance benchmarks.
  • Ensure all team members stay up-to-date with industry trends, educational technology advancements, and certifications.
• Project Management
  • Lead technology projects, including new device rollouts, network upgrades, and system migrations.
  • Collaborate with departments to evaluate and integrate ed-tech tools, supporting academic goals with suitable digital resources.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience managing IT systems, preferably in an educational environment.
• Proficiency in network management, cybersecurity, data management, and educational software platforms (such as Google Workspace for Education, Microsoft Office, etc.).

Skills and Competencies:

• Commitment to KIPP KC’s mission and values
• Familiarity with student information systems (SIS) and learning management systems (LMS).
• Experience implementing and enforcing cybersecurity measures in a school setting.
• Previous experience leading a team and managing technology budgets.
• Strong problem-solving, project management, and interpersonal skills; ability to communicate complex information clearly to non-technical users.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a diverse environment
• Demonstrates a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Fosters an inclusive environment for students, staff, and families
• Works effectively with colleagues and stakeholders
• Builds strong relationships within the KIPP KC community

Physical Requirements: 

• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions. 
• The person in this position needs to be able to move about inside and outside the school or office throughout the workday.
• The candidate is expected to attend conferences, meetings, and training sessions both virtually and in person within the Region. 

Work Environment

• Reports to work Monday-Friday and sometimes weekend. 
• Hybrid: A typical school, office, or virtual environment with frequent interruptions.

Travel Requirements:

• Ability to travel to work location. 

Compensation and Benefits:

Salary is based on years of experience, educational background, and level of expertise.

As a full-time KIPP Kansas City employee, you are eligible to participate in all KIPP Kansas City benefit plans. We offer a comprehensive range of benefits with competitive rates, including medical, dental, and vision options, as well as life insurance, fertility, and disability plans.

KIPP Kansas City is committed to the professional growth and development of our staff. We provide numerous opportunities for advancement, ongoing professional development, and leadership training to help you achieve your career goals.

KIPP Kansas City provides equal employment opportunities for all applicants and employees. As an equal opportunity employer, we hire without consideration of race, religion, creed, color, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, or disability.