Directors of Legislative Affairs

Job Title

Director of Legislative Affairs (Immediate Opening)

Job Location

IDEA Public Schools 2800 S Ih 35 Svrd, Austin, TX 78704

Job Overview

The Director of Legislative Affairs will report to the Managing Director of External Affairs. As a part of the Advancement Team, they will play a crucial role in IDEAs External Affairs and Advocacy work, supporting opportunities for organizational growth. This role will consist of four primary responsibilities:

• Defending per-pupil funding and protecting it from disproportionate cuts by the Legislature or any governmental entity in all states where IDEA operates.
• Building relationships with lawmakers' offices, coalition partners, and charter associations to advance IDEAs mission across all states and regions.
• Overseeing the continued development of a coalition of IDEA Team and Family parents, students, teachers, and alumni to advocate for and advance IDEAs mission.
• Supporting IDEAs External Affairs team in advocacy and growth efforts.

Effective execution of this work will ensure IDEA operates in a supportive legislative environment and positively impacts IDEAs ability to grow in communities of demand.

Compensation

$82,000 - $100,900 a year

Responsibilities

• Legislative Strategy and Execution (50%)

  • Develop and execute a strategy to influence policy at the local, state, and federal levels.
  • Collaborate with internal stakeholders to identify and prioritize key advocacy issues affecting public charter schools.
  • Monitor legislative and regulatory developments and provide timely updates to senior leadership.
  • Cultivate relationships with policymakers, government officials, and other external partners to influence education policies and regulations.
  • Represent IDEAs interests at conferences, public hearings, and relevant events.

• Family Organizing and Engagement (10%)

  • Develop and oversee the implementation of family, teacher, and alumni engagement and advocacy programs with a focus on parent engagement.
  • Lead and supervise the family organizing team, providing guidance and mentorship.
  • Implement strategies to effectively engage and mobilize families in support of the network's initiatives.
  • Collaborate with school leaders and staff to ensure effective family engagement practices across the network.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration (30%)

  • Work closely with various departments to align messaging, amplify advocacy efforts, and maximize impact.
  • Develop and maintain an expert-level knowledge of legislation and policy relevant to IDEA.
  • Prepare and provide updates to the Regulatory Affairs team regarding active legislation and potential policy changes.
  • Collaborate with the Marketing and Communications team to develop communications materials and media strategies.
  • Foster strong relationships with internal stakeholders to ensure their participation in advocacy efforts.

• Leadership and Team Management (10%)

  • Lead and develop a high-performing advocacy and family organizing team.
  • Set clear performance expectations, provide regular feedback, and conduct performance evaluations.
  • Foster a collaborative and inclusive team culture that promotes professional growth.
  • Promote effective cross-team collaboration, knowledge sharing, and best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree required.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in public affairs, government, advocacy, community organizing, or related fields.
• Minimum of 1-2 years of experience working in a K-12 school environment (strongly preferred).
• Experience in education and knowledge of K-12 education and school choice policy issues (preferred).
• Experience working with diverse stakeholders, including policymakers, community leaders, and families (preferred).

We're excited for you to apply!