Director of Agricultural Science

Director of Agricultural Science

Reports to: Executive Director of Secondary Schools

Dept./School: Career Technical Education; CEC; Bridwell Ag Farm

Exemption Status: Exempt/Professional

Payscale/Days: Inst 5/240

Funding: Grant Funded

Primary Purpose:

Direct and manage the agricultural science program for the district. Provide students with appropriate learning activities and experiences designed to help them fulfill their potential for intellectual, emotional, physical, and social growth. Enable students to develop competencies and skills to function successfully in society.

Qualifications:

Education/Certification:

Bachelor's degree from accredited university

Valid Texas teaching certificate with required endorsements

Demonstrated competency in agricultural science

T-TESS Certification

Special Knowledge/Skills:

Knowledge of agricultural science and technology

Knowledge of curriculum and instruction

Ability to lead and build Ag Science programs

Ability to supervise agricultural field experiences

Ability to manage budget and personnel

Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills

Experience:

Minimum of 5 years of Ag classroom experience.

1-3 years of CTE leadership experience preferred.

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

1. Serve as advisor to local FFA chapter, including planning and conducting leadership, citizenship, career development, and competitive activities for students at local, regional, and state levels. Help train successful CDE and LDE teams.
2. Oversee the Bridwell Ag Farm and Ag Science Center.
3. Oversee the planning, development, and implementation of all agricultural services.
4. Assume responsibility for maintaining the grounds and farm facilities, not including maintenance repairs.
5. Hiring and evaluating Ag teachers in conjunction with the CEC principal.
6. Available to students after the regular school day and weekends to work at the farm overseeing the health of the livestock and maintaining the facilities.
7. Provide leadership and guidance to ensure compliance with industry regulations and standards.
8. Evaluate and analyze data to make informed decisions and adjust strategies as necessary.
9. Develop and implement long-range and short-range plans for the instructional program.
10. Create and maintain business relationships for FFA program and sponsorships for student projects.
11. Manage farm access and contracts for students and parents.
12. Complete all travel, registration, and paperwork for stock shows, LDE's, CDE's, area leadership, state convention, and other activities.
13. Coordinate field trips for AG classes to enhance learning experiences.
14. Maintain judging card and work with students to ensure completion of their record books.
15. Maintain all 865 student FFA account financial records.
16. Coordinate and work to hold the annual weld-off and plant sale.
17. Work with FFA booster club in activities to enhance all AG programs.
18. Work to coordinate and host events at the Ag Farm to include clean-up day, animal move-ins, improvements, animal clinics, and other related duties.
19. Work with Ag teachers to create and plan yearly Ag calendar.
20. Hold parent meetings and attend all FFA events and activities.
21. Create and update FFA and Ag handbooks for animals, farm, and activities.

Student Growth and Development:

1. Conduct ongoing assessment of student achievement through formal and informal testing.
2. Be a positive role model for students and support mission of school district.

Communication with Stakeholders:

1. Establish and maintain a professional relationship and open communication with parents, students, colleagues, and community members.
2. Partner with key stakeholders to identify new opportunities for growth and expansion.
3. Develop and maintain strong relationships with clients and partners in the agricultural industry.

Budget and Inventory:

1. Develop and administer budget based on documented program needs and ensure that operations are cost effective and funds are managed wisely.
2. Coordinate fundraising activities and manage funds.
3. Maintain current inventory of all fixed assets related to the program.
4. Compile, maintain, and file all reports, records, and other documents required.

Professional Growth and Development:

1. Participate in staff development activities to improve job-related skills.
2. Attend and participate in faculty meetings and serve on staff committees as required.

Other:

1. Follow district safety protocols and emergency procedures.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

Supervise assigned teachers and staff.

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:

Tools/Equipment Used: Personal computer and peripherals, standard instructional equipment; agricultural equipment

Posture: Prolonged standing; frequent kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting

Motion: Frequent walking; repetitive hand motions; frequent keyboarding and use of mouse; overhead reaching

Lifting: Frequent heavy lifting (45 pounds and over); may lift and move agriculture equipment and animals

Environment: Work outside and inside; exposure to extreme temperatures (hot, cold, and inclement weather), humidity, and prolonged sunlight; exposure to biological hazards; work around machinery with moving parts; work around moving objects or vehicles; work on uneven or slippery surfaces; work around animals; may work alone; frequent districtwide and statewide travel

Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control under stress; work prolonged or irregular hours

Equal Opportunity Employer: Applicants for all positions are considered without regard to race, color, sex, (including pregnancy), national origin, religion, age, disability, genetic information, veteran or military status, or any other legally protected status. Additionally, the district does not discriminate against an applicant who acts to oppose such discrimination or participates in the investigation of a complaint related to a discriminating employment practice.

The district Title IX Coordinator is Jennifer Spurgers, Director of Human Resources, 1104 Broad St., Wichita Falls, TX 76301 View phone number on click.appcast.io

Questions regarding posted positions should be addressed to Human Resources View phone number on click.appcast.io.