Director of Gifted Education (K-12) 2026-27 - MO
Job Title: Director of Gifted Education (K-12) 2026-27
School District (Location of Position): Columbia Public Schools
City/State (of Position): Columbia/Missouri
Where to Apply https://columbia.schoolspring.com/?jobid=5550370
Position Open Until: 4/6/2026
Job Description PURPOSE: The Director of Gifted Education (K–12) provides districtwide leadership, coordination, and oversight of gifted education services for students in grades kindergarten through twelve. This position is responsible for establishing and sustaining a cohesive K–12 vision for gifted education, ensuring high-quality programming, consistent identification practices, rigorous curriculum, and equitable access to services. The Director collaborates with district leaders, principals, teachers, families, and community partners to ensure gifted learners are appropriately challenged and supported across all grade levels.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES: Provide districtwide leadership, coordination, and oversight of all gifted education programming in grades K–12. • Develop, implement, and evaluate a comprehensive K–12 gifted education model aligned with district goals, state requirements, and best practices. • Ensure consistent and systematic identification of gifted learners across the district. • Oversee curriculum development, alignment, and implementation to ensure rigorous and engaging learning experiences for gifted students. • Lead and manage grade acceleration conversations and procedures in collaboration with district administration. • Hire, supervise, support, and evaluate gifted education teaching staff and non-certified personnel. • Provide instructional leadership and coaching to gifted educators across elementary and secondary levels. • Support principals with staffing, training, and evaluation of gifted education personnel. • Review and authorize Professional Development Plans (PDPs) for gifted staff. • Design, deliver, and evaluate professional learning related to gifted education best practices. • Serve as a districtwide resource for principals, teachers, counselors, administrators, parents, and families. • Maintain current knowledge of research, trends, and best practices in gifted education. • Partner with families and school personnel to ensure student needs are met. • Serve as a liaison among gifted students, families, schools, community organizations, colleges, universities, and cultural institutions. • Coordinate enrichment opportunities including advanced coursework, internships, interdisciplinary learning experiences, career exploration, and arts opportunities. • Ensure compliance with state and district accountability and reporting requirements. • Manage program budgets, fiscal responsibilities, payroll, transportation, and facilities needs related to gifted education. • Coordinate building and program logistics as needed. • Maintain accurate records and documentation related to gifted services. Perform other duties as necessary to support the mission and vision of Columbia Public School District.
DISTRICT EXPECTATIONS: All employees of the District are expected to adhere to the policies and regulations of the Board of Education, maintain appropriate certification and competencies necessary for the position, and demonstrate the values of the district at all times. For information on polices, regulations and values, visit http://www.cpsk12.org.
REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS Reports To: Executive Director of Special Services Supervises: Gifted education teachers, instructional aides, and program support staff
QUALIFICATIONS: Minimum: Master’s Degree; Missouri Teaching Certificate; Gifted Education Certification; Principal Certification Preferred: Specialist or Doctorate degree; Administrative experience; Experience leading gifted education programs across grade levels Ideal candidate will have experience teaching gifted education in grades 6-12, and a solid understanding of gifted education pedagogical practices and program coordination.