Posted: July 12, 2011

Job Summary
The Research Assistant will support the Executive Director of Policy in actualizing strategic policy work for the Recovery School District, ensuring the development and enactment of policies that will further the district’s schools’ and students’ improvement.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.
Other minor duties may be assigned.

Responsibilities include (but are not limited to) the following:
• Thoroughly researches all local, state and federal statutes that affect K-12 education.
• Maintains an up-to-date knowledge of current local, state, and federal policies and legislation as it relates to K-12 education.
• Prepares reports and drafts legislation and informative presentations under the directive of the Executive Director of Policy
• Supports all office initiatives that lead to the creation and implementation of the RSD’s policy agenda.
• Identifies policy needs within the RSD and opportunities within the local, state, and federal legislatures.
• Formulates plans to effectively implement necessary policies.
• Coordinates with the Executive Director of Policy and Deputy Superintendent of Community and Policy.

Qualifications
The requirements listed below are representative of the qualifications necessary to perform the job.

A. Education and Experience

Required:
• Bachelor’s Degree

Preferred:
• At least three years of work experience

B. Other Knowledge, Skills or Abilities Required

• Exceptional oral and written communication skills.
• Exceptional relationship-building skills.
• Up-to-date, comprehensive knowledge of major legislation regarding K-12 education.
• Demonstrated ability to create and draft legislative proposals and policies.
• Demonstrated ability to synthesize legislation for a designated audience.
• Experience researching, analyzing, and synthesizing policies regarding K-12 education.
• Ability to use constructive planning, communication, and collaboration skills in all relationships.
• Consistently professional, diplomatic, tactful and respectful.
• Ability to strategically use legislative data to drive policy decisions.
• Exceptional project planning and management skills.
• Ability to coordinate and manage a variety of diverse and complex tasks and systems.
• Self-motivated to establish rapport with others and build strong relationships.
• Demonstrates genuine passion for RSD mission and strategic goals.

Requires flexibility and ability to work in a team environment.

Requires some nights and weekends.