Application Guide

How to Apply for Senior Director, Technology

at New Teacher Center

🏢 About New Teacher Center

New Teacher Center (NTC) is a national nonprofit dedicated to accelerating the effectiveness of teachers and school leaders, ultimately ensuring all students have access to high-quality teaching and learning. Working at NTC means contributing to a mission-driven organization that partners with school systems across the country, making a tangible impact on educational equity.

About This Role

As Senior Director of Technology, you will lead NTC's technology strategy, cybersecurity, and digital innovation, including the implementation of a technology roadmap and AI strategy. This role is pivotal in shaping how NTC integrates emerging technologies to enhance its programs and partnerships, directly impacting the effectiveness of educators and student outcomes.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might start with a virtual check-in with your team, followed by a meeting with the AI Taskforce to discuss progress on AI initiatives. You might then review a draft data privacy agreement with a district partner, and later collaborate with program leaders to evaluate a new edtech tool for potential integration. Your day could end with a one-on-one with a direct report to support their professional growth.

🎯 Who New Teacher Center Is Looking For

  • A strategic leader with 12+ years in technology management, who has successfully developed and executed technology roadmaps in a nonprofit or mission-driven environment.
  • Proven experience in AI/ML strategy implementation, with a deep understanding of ethical considerations, especially in educational contexts.
  • Strong people manager with 5+ years of experience, skilled in building and leading high-performing teams, and fostering a culture of innovation.
  • Excellent communicator who can bridge technical and non-technical stakeholders, including district partners, program teams, and external vendors, with a focus on data privacy and security.

📝 Tips for Applying to New Teacher Center

1

Tailor your resume to highlight specific achievements in AI strategy and cybersecurity, quantifying outcomes where possible.

2

Research NTC's current programs and initiatives, and mention how your experience aligns with their mission in your cover letter.

3

Showcase your experience with data governance and district partnerships, as this is a unique aspect of the role.

4

Highlight any experience working in education or with educational technology, even if not directly in a classroom setting.

5

Since the role is remote, emphasize your experience leading distributed teams and managing remote work dynamics.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Express passion for NTC's mission and how your leadership in technology can accelerate teacher effectiveness.", 'Detail your experience in developing and implementing AI strategies, especially in a way that aligns with ethical guidelines.', 'Emphasize your ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage external partnerships, as this is central to the role.', 'Mention your track record in cybersecurity and data governance, and how you can ensure district data privacy.']

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • Review NTC's website to understand their current programs, such as teacher induction and leadership development, and their impact.
  • Look into NTC's recent news or blog posts about technology, AI, or digital innovation to see their current focus.
  • Research the K-12 education technology landscape, including common data privacy regulations like FERPA and state laws.
  • Familiarize yourself with NTC's organizational structure and leadership team to understand where this role fits.
Visit New Teacher Center's Website →

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you approach developing a technology roadmap that aligns with NTC's strategic goals?
2 Can you describe a time you implemented an AI strategy? What challenges did you face and how did you ensure ethical use?
3 How do you stay current with emerging technologies and evaluate their potential impact on a nonprofit's programs?
4 Describe your experience with data privacy and security, particularly in handling sensitive student or teacher data.
5 How would you foster collaboration between the technology team and program teams to integrate new tools effectively?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Avoid a generic cover letter that doesn't reference NTC's mission or this specific role's responsibilities.
  • Don't underestimate the importance of the AI and cybersecurity aspects; be prepared to discuss them in depth.
  • Avoid focusing only on technical skills without demonstrating strategic leadership and people management experience.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to New Teacher Center!