Assistant in Research and Educational Issues

Responsibilities: Engage in policy analysis on a variety of topics including teacher evaluation, state testing, graduation measures, and school calendars; Provide assistance to all NYSUT Departments, regional offices, and members regarding a wide range of educational policy matters; Develop NYSUT Fact Sheets and online resources on educational policy matters that make regulatory language more accessible to members; Advocate for members directly with the State Education Department; Coordinate NYSUT’s interactions with a variety of State Education Department advisory committees on issues such as teacher evaluations, data privacy, the Committee of Practitioners, and Commissioner’s Advisory Council for NYS Teachers; Coordinate meetings of NYSUT Subject Area Committees; Monitor and advise on legislation, Board of Regents items and other policies effecting ELA, Early Childhood and Health, PE and FACS teachers; Monitor and advise on learning standards implementation, graduation measures and NYS Student Data Privacy Laws; and Provide technical assistance on federal programs such as the Elementary Secondary Education Act, School Improvement Grants, and the ESSA Accountability system. Other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree required and a master’s degree is preferred; Strong policy analysis skills and the ability to synthesize data and information from a variety of sources; Organization and facilitation skills and the ability to provide leadership and support to task forces, committees, and work groups; Strong communication skills, both written and oral, including the ability to produce concise summaries and briefings; Understanding and appreciation of union organizations, activities, and values; Demonstrated experience in project management, including a willingness to exercise professional judgement and leadership; Ability to interpret state regulations and statutes along with State Education Department field guidance; Exceptional time management skills to balance long-term projects with daily, individualized activities; Working knowledge of multiple statistical software packages. Willingness and ability to travel and work irregular hours including potential weekends on occasion.