Director of Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Emerging Technologies (SY26-27)

REPORTS TO: Chief Technology Officer

POSITION OVERVIEW:

The Director of AI & Emerging Technology will lead the strategy, governance, and implementation of artificial intelligence across Boston Public Schools. This role is responsible for identifying high-impact opportunities for AI, driving pilot initiatives, and scaling solutions that support teaching, learning, and district operations.

Operating as a cross-functional leader, the Director will partner with academic leadership, technology teams, data and accountability, legal, and operations to ensure AI is implemented effectively, responsibly, and in alignment with district priorities. This role establishes clear guardrails for the use of AI, ensures protection of student and staff data, and aligns AI initiatives with the district’s enterprise technology ecosystem.

The Director works in close alignment with the Chief Technology Officer, who serves as the final decision-maker on district-wide AI strategy, priorities, and investments. This role is responsible for driving execution, coordination, and implementation of AI initiatives, ensuring that work progresses efficiently, stakeholders remain aligned, and initiatives are delivered with fidelity to the district’s vision and standards. 

Responsibilities:

AI Strategy, Instructional Enablement & Scaled Implementation

• In collaboration with the Chief Technology Officer, define and lead the district-wide strategy for AI adoption across instruction and operations
• Identify and prioritize high-impact AI use cases, with a focus on instructional impact and educator effectiveness
• Design and oversee pilot initiatives, establishing clear success metrics and evaluation frameworks
• Drive a “pilot → evaluate → scale” model to accelerate adoption of effective solutions
• Partner with academic leadership to integrate AI into teaching and learning practices and support student outcomes

Governance, Policy & Responsible Use

• Establish and oversee policies and guidelines for responsible AI use, including:
• student data privacy and protection
• ethical and equitable use
• acceptable use and guardrails
• Partner with cybersecurity, legal, and data teams to ensure compliance with district policies and regulations
• Define and manage processes for evaluating, approving, and monitoring AI tools and use cases
• Develop and implement staff AI Literacy training in collaboration with Digital Learning Team
• Partner closely with the Chief Technology Officer to translate strategic direction into actionable plans, ensuring alignment between vision, implementation, and outcomes across all AI initiatives. 

Vendor Strategy, Tool Alignment & Enterprise Integration

• Lead evaluation and selection of AI tools and vendors in collaboration with procurement, technology, and the AI Steering committee
• Establish and maintain an approved portfolio of AI solutions aligned with enterprise systems and architecture
• Prevent duplication and tool sprawl by enforcing alignment with district standards
• Monitor vendor performance and ensure solutions meet district requirements for privacy, security, and scalability

Cross-Functional Leadership, Communication & Continuous Improvement

• Establish and lead a cross-functional AI Center of Excellence, including stakeholders from Instruction, Technology, Data & Accountability, Family & Community Engagement, and Operations
• Coordinate AI-related efforts across departments to ensure alignment and effective execution
• Serve as the central point of communication for AI initiatives across the district
• Develop guidance, resources, and communication to support staff use of AI tools
• Stay current with emerging technologies and continuously refine strategy based on results and feedback

Qualifications - Required:

• Experience with AI tools or digital innovation initiatives
• Bachelor’s degree in education, technology, public administration, or related field
• 5–7+ years of experience leading for innovation; cross-functional initiatives, programs, or technology transformations
• Foundational understanding of artificial intelligence and machine learning concepts, including large language models (LLMs), generative AI, and common use cases in education and operations
• Familiarity with enterprise technology environments, including system integrations, data platforms, and identity/access considerations
• Ability to evaluate AI tools and platforms for usability, scalability, data privacy, and security implications
• Understanding of data governance, privacy, and responsible use considerations related to AI systems
• Ability to translate technical concepts into clear, actionable guidance for non-technical stakeholders
• Demonstrated experience driving organizational change and adoption of new tools or practices
• Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills
• Ability to operate effectively in complex, multi-stakeholder environments
• Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• Current authorization to work in the United States
• An understanding of and commitment to gain greater understanding of what is necessary for an urban school system to enjoy continuous improvement in an increasingly complex and competitive environment. 
• A deeply held and unyielding belief in the overarching mission of public education.

Qualifications - Preferred:

• Experience in K-12 education and/or public sector organizations
• Familiarity with data privacy regulations (e.g., FERPA) and responsible technology use
• Experience with vendor evaluation, procurement, and technology governance
• Experience supporting change management or implementation initiatives
• Familiarity with Boston and Boston Public Schools

UNION/MANAGERIAL/RESIDENCY REQUIRED: Managerial

Terms: D61 ($126,976)

The Boston Public Schools, in accordance with its nondiscrimination policies, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, criminal record, physical or mental disability, pregnancy or pregnancy-related conditions, homelessness, sex/gender, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, genetics, natural or protective hairstyle, military status, immigration status, English language proficiency, or any other factor prohibited by law in its programs and activities. BPS does not tolerate any form of retaliation, or bias-based intimidation, threat or harassment that demeans individuals’ dignity or interferes with their ability to work or learn. If you require an accommodation pursuant to the ADA for the application process, please contact the Accommodations Unit at accommodations@bostonpublicschools.org.