Posted: 15-Jul-25
Location: Meridian, Idaho
Type: Full Time
Salary: $171,000 annually
Preferred Education:
Are you a strategic thinker, a trusted advisor, and a dynamic communicator ready to make a difference in public education?
West Ada School District is seeking a Chief of Staff to serve as a key member of our executive leadership team. The Chief of Staff serves as a key leader overseeing the Communications Team. You’ll drive the district’s communication strategy, ensure alignment with strategic goals, and oversee public records requests, policy development, and high-profile events like graduation and the We Are West Ada Awards.
The ideal candidate for Chief of Staff is an ambitious, forward-thinking leader who brings both strategic insight and creative vision to the table. This person thrives in a fast-paced environment, communicates clearly and effectively, and can navigate complex situations with professionalism and political savvy. They serve as a trusted sounding board to the Superintendent and a steady presence for a high-functioning executive leadership team, helping keep priorities aligned and operations running smoothly. A keen eye for design and messaging is a plus, as they will help shape how the district’s story is told both internally and externally. This role requires someone who leads with confidence, brings out the best in others, and balances big-picture thinking with day-to-day execution.
This is a high-impact role at the center of community engagement, organizational cohesion, and transparent communication. This role requires someone who leads with confidence, brings out the best in others, and balances big-picture thinking with day-to-day execution. If this sounds exciting, we invite you to join us!
Why join WASD? West Ada School District offers more than just a job – it’s a chance to make a lasting impact on the lives of students while growing your career in a supportive and inspiring environment. As a vital leader in our District, you'll help shape the narrative of public education and strengthen trust with families, staff, media, and community partners.
Anticipated Start Date: September 1, 2025
How to apply: Applications are accepted online. This position is open until filled with the first round of applications to be reviewed on July 25th.
PURPOSE
The Chief of Staff serves as a key strategic planner, advisor, decision-maker, and problem solver for the Superintendent, managing special projects, leading the coordination of operational and academic initiatives and serving as a primary contact for communications. The Chief of Staff supports the Board of Trustees as a key contributor on the development of policy, and by preparing memos, presentations, and other communications. The Chief of Staff represents the Superintendent at public events and in various capacities with government and community organizations. The Chief of Staff serves as the District’s spokesperson with the media and other agencies; plans, organizes and implements the West Ada School District’s public information program; performs related work as required.
PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES
The primary function of an employee in this class is to develop, implement and maintain a strategic approach to all external relations and internal functions of the school district. The Chief of Staff serves as a key strategic planner, advisor, and problem solver for the Superintendent, ensuring that issues that need the Superintendent’s attention are addressed in a timely manner. The Chief of Staff provides operational assistance by managing special projects, leading key initiatives, and ensuring expectations and deadlines are clearly communicated to staff. Additionally, this position is responsible for providing the Superintendent and the Board of Trustees with background information in preparation for public appearances.
The Chief of Staff also serves as the District’s spokesperson and primary media liaison; develops positive responses to the media. Work includes professional application of research and writing skills, selecting news media, preparing and releasing material, and preparing various periodic and special reports. The work is performed under the direction of the Superintendent, with considerable latitude granted for the exercise of independent judgment and initiative. This position requires a deep understanding of all District programs, public relation principles and theories and communication techniques. The primary duties of this class are performed in the District office, school sites and after hours in a variety of locations.
- Bachelor’s degree in public relations, journalism, mass communications or closely related field; and
- Considerable experience in responsible public relations positions, five or more years of experience in school public relations preferred; or
- Any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the knowledge and abilities necessary to perform the work;
- Must have a valid Idaho Driver’s License and a vehicle to drive and/or they must provide their own transportation for job related activities;
- The job-related travel during the day will be reimbursed at the approved state mileage reimbursement rate.