KIPP Metro Atlanta Schools is part of the KIPP (Knowledge is Power Program) national network of free, open enrollment, college preparatory schools dedicated to ensuring that every child grows up free to create the future they want for themselves and their communities. There are 280 KIPP schools in 21 states and the District of Columbia serving more than 175,000 scholars and alumni. KIPP Metro Atlanta currently operates 11 schools including five primary schools, six middle schools and one high school, as well as KIPP Forward which supports scholars on their journey to a choice-filled life. We are a social justice organization and our vision and mission require the work of dedicated, bold and skilled leaders, educators, and support staff who are committed to serving as the catalyst for joyful, academically excellent schools and the foundation for building a more just and equitable world for our scholars.

The Certification Manager is responsible for all facets of employee certification for KIPP Metro Atlanta Schools. They will ensure that all employees meet certification requirements as well as provide expert guidance to all inquiries dealing with certification. The Certification Manager is responsible for verifying and monitoring the certification status of both applicants and employees, confirming regional compliance with state certification and licensing requirements, and providing training to leaders and staff. 

This job description is intended to describe the type of work being performed by a person assigned to this position. It is not an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities required by the employee.

Job Responsibilities:

• Administers all services related to teacher certification, including the maintenance and renewal of applicable certification endorsements.
• Advises personnel regarding specific coursework, tests, or workshops needed to meet initial certification and renewal requirements and/or requirements for additional endorsement areas.
• Processes certification applications and verifies certification with the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GPSC), universities, colleges, and education agencies in other states.
• Collaborates with HR on the evaluation of employment transcripts, education units, credentials, etc. for the purpose of identifying and assessing certified applicants, teacher eligibility, and placement according to GaPSC assignment criteria.
• Tracks certification, testing, and waiver status and follows-up with employees to ensure completion of certification requirements within established timelines.
• Researches and assists with critical data relating to Certified Personnel Index (CPI) reporting.
• Researches, maintains and communicates current information on GaPSC and federal rules, certification requirements and processes, testing dates and related legal requirements.
• Compiles, maintains, and files all reports, records, and other documents as required including maintaining a database of certification and licensing information for certified employees.
• Facilitates, communicates, and translates vital certification information to employees relating to State of Georgia laws, rules, and guidelines to ensure compliance
• Reads and analyzes GaPSC and District laws, rules, and guidelines to develop and communicate an understanding of systems and applications
• Acts as certification liaison between the GaPSC and the Region’s certified employees
• Attends and cascade certification training and development relating to State of Georgia certification laws, rules, and guidelines

• Bachelor’s degree required
• Minimum 2 years of work experience in human resources related field, preferably in certification
• Working knowledge of Atlanta Public Schools and Fulton County Schools policies, procedures, and regulations and how they relate to the GaPSC certification process
• Proven track record of meeting deadlines and the ability to be flexible and adapt to changing priorities, multi-task, work in a fast-paced demanding environment
• Excellent customer service, interpersonal, and communication skills and ability to build meaningful relationships quickly
• Ability to collaborate effectively with a diverse group of stakeholders at all levels of an organization, and to consistently display a high level of professionalism in all interactions
• Demonstrated ability to work with personal and confidential information
• Demonstrated experience with Microsoft Office Suite
• Must be able to successfully manage multiple tasks, projects, and responsibilities
• Must be able to collaborate effectively with district and school personnel, the general public, and work with diverse groups of people
• Excellent communication skills both written and verbal

Compensation:

Compensation for this role is between $60,000 and $70,000.  The starting pay will depend on various factors that may include but are not limited to professional experience, education, training, and certifications. 

KIPP Metro Atlanta Schools offers a competitive benefits package that includes:

• 19 days of Paid Time Off, in addition to identified holidays and regular school breaks including Fall Break, Thanksgiving Break, Mid-Winter Break and Spring Break.
• Comprehensive health insurance (medical and dental), life insurance and optional short- and long-term disability
• Paid Parental Leave
• Participation in Georgia retirement plan and an optional 403(b) retirement plan

Location & Work Conditions:

This position requires candidates to be based in Atlanta and regularly be in schools and able to attend in person meetings and events. Additional in person time may be necessary based upon organizational needs.

Statement of Non-Discrimination:

KIPP Metro Atlanta Schools provides equal employment opportunities for all applicants and employees. As an equal opportunity employer, we hire without consideration of race, religion, creed, color, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, or disability.