EPP Operations & Compliance Manager

The EPP Operations & Compliance Manager is responsible for the administrative and regulatory integrity of the Educator Preparation Program. This role ensures total compliance with Texas Education Agency (TEA) and State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC) standards, oversees the technical lifecycle of a candidate from admission to certification, and serves as the primary data auditor for state and federal reporting. Additionally, this role ensures the program maintains high instructional quality through continuous adherence to Quality Matters (QM) standards, preparation of official program documentation, and proactive updates to curriculum based on changes in law and TEKS. Primary Duties and Responsibilities Compliance & Reporting State & Federal Reporting: Lead the annual data reporting for the Accountability System for Educator Preparation (ASEP) and Title II Federal reporting; ensure all deadlines (e.g., September 15 finalization) are met. Database Management: Maintain accurate entries in state databases, including ASEP, the Educator Certification Online System (ECOS), and IPRC vendors. Regulatory Oversight: Stay current with Texas Administrative Code (TAC) and Texas Education Code (TEC) rule changes; ensure program alignment with all TEA/SBEC standards and guidance. Program Certification: Maintain continuous certification of all courses and the program as a whole, ensuring all state requirements for operating an EPP are met without lapse. Executive Reporting: Compile and analyze program data to develop progress reports for the executive leadership team regarding program development and market capacity for growth. Audit Readiness: Manage the security and oversight of confidential and auditable candidate data in accordance with FERPA; ensure all records are "audit-ready" at all times. Certification & Admissions Certification Coordination: Review and recommend certificates; coordinate candidate eligibility for state testing (TExES) and various certification levels (probationary, intern, standard). Admissions Management: Monitor and track candidate applications, assist in the screening process, and manage the Statement of Understanding (SOU) communication and commitment tracking. Documentation Development: Assist with the preparation and annual revision of program handbooks, candidate applications, and other official EPP materials. Field Supervisor Auditing: Audit Field Supervisor reports and supporting documents for errors and inconsistencies; verify the frequency and duration of observations to ensure compliance for ASEP reporting. Test Approvals: Manage and upload test approvals for candidates as they meet program benchmarks. Operations & Systems Coursework Maintenance & Improvement: Ensure that all EPP coursework in Canvas is updated regularly based on continuous improvement cycles, shifts in state and federal law, and revisions to the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS). Quality Matters (QM) Alignment: Lead internal audits to ensure that the digital learning environment and course structure continue to meet Quality Matters (QM) standards. LMS Administration: Manage Canvas LMS enrollment; enroll admitted candidates in appropriate courses and monitor timely posting of grades by instructors to ensure candidate progress. System Management: Develop and maintain spreadsheets, diagrams, and process maps (Smartsheets, etc.) to document program needs and candidate progress. Logistics Support: Support team members to coordinate materials and space for in-person training events and monitor attendance/records for Field-Based Experiences (FBE). Communication: Respond to inquiries from candidates and stakeholders regarding certification status, state testing, and program compliance. Qualifications Education/Certification Bachelor's Degree (Required). Master's Degree in Education, Instructional Design, Public Administration, or related field (Preferred). Current and valid Texas teaching or Principal certification (Preferred, to assist with certification reviews and interpreting state code). Experience 3-5+ years of experience in program operations, compliance, or data management. LMS Knowledge: Demonstrated experience or knowledge in LMS course design, instructional design, or online curriculum management. Experience with TEA/SBEC reporting systems (ASEP, ECOS) and federal reporting. Familiarity with Quality Matters (QM) standards and course certification processes. Proven experience in file management, data auditing, and professional report writing. Knowledge and Skills Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Google Suite, Smartsheets, and Canvas LMS. Ability to decipher legal statutes and communicate complex compliance issues to stakeholders. Meticulous attention to detail with a high degree of accuracy in data entry and record-keeping. Ability to work independently and manage strict state and federal deadlines. Physical / Environmental Factors Ability to move objects up to 25 pounds frequently; primarily an indoor, controlled environment. Occasional district and statewide travel for conferences or supervision site visits.