Executive Director of State Programs
Location: Remote
Reports to: Chief Executive Officer
About Accelerate
Accelerate exists to dramatically improve student outcomes at scale by turning evidence into action. As a hub for advancing what works, Accelerate partners with states to scale proven, evidence-based practices that deliver measurable gains for students. We share knowledge and insights across the field to expand what’s possible, working alongside leaders to embed effective solutions into the fabric of public education. By aligning research, policy, and practice through state implementation, we turn evidence into measurable progress, helping students thrive.
Accelerate is a growing organization - equity-centered, results-oriented, and grounded in both optimism and practical implementation. We aim to build a small, talented, diverse team that embodies our core values: accelerating student achievement, seeking truth through evidence, embracing new ideas, multiplying impact through collaboration, and upholding accountability for results and how we achieve them. Team members bring both systemic experience and an entrepreneurial spirit to the work.
About the Role
The Executive Director of State Programs (ED) is a senior executive responsible for leading Accelerate’s state strategy to scale proven, evidence-based practices that deliver measurable gains for students. This role involves positioning multi-million dollar state grant programs to align research, policy, and practice in service of the organization's strategic goals to drive outcomes at scale by turning evidence into action.
Reporting to the CEO, the ED will lead Accelerate’s state strategy, directly managing senior staff responsible for government relations and state program execution. 20 % travel is anticipated.
What You’ll Help Us Do
Strategic Leadership
- Develop and implement Accelerate’s external state strategy and engagement approach, aligned with organizational mission and goals
- Drive public discourse on proven, evidence-based practices that deliver measurable gains for students at scale
- Recruit and support state programs to drive student outcomes
Legislation and Policy
- Monitor and analyze legislation, regulations, and emerging policy issues impacting education, providing timely guidance to inform strategy and external engagement
- Develop model policies and regulations that facilitate the implementation of evidence-based practices in education
Coalition Building and Knowledge Sharing
- Cultivate and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including policymakers, government officials, and advocacy and nonprofit groups
- Partner with the broader education and national service community to work as a coalition on key federal agendas
People Management & Culture
- Build and lead a high-performing team; provide ongoing feedback, coaching, and development opportunities
- Build strong, trusting relationships across departments
Who You Are
Successful employees at Accelerate:
- Champion the potential of all students and advance diversity, equity, and inclusion
- Model an easygoing, approachable, and calm demeanor while multitasking in a fast-paced environment
- Communicate clearly and build strong relationships across a variety of internal and external stakeholders
- Listen openly, learn continuously, and connect authentically with diverse communities, including students, families, educators, policymakers, local leaders, and funders
- Demonstrate strong organization and attention to detail while interpreting and following complex guidelines and instructions
What You’ve Done
- Extensive professional experience with a minimum of 10 years in a senior leadership and/or executive role
- Prior experience in a senior role in a State Education Agency preferred
Compensation
The annual salary range for this position is between $200,000 and $250,000. Accelerate also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, technology stipend, 401k with employer match, and generous PTO.
How to Apply
Please submit your application here. The preferred application deadline for this position is December 11, 2025. Note that we do not guarantee review of applications after this date.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Accelerate is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and has a strong commitment to building a diverse and inclusive team. As such, it is the continuing policy of Accelerate to consider all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
What We Do
Watershed Advisors powers governments with the vision, talent, and insight to conceive of high-value education and workforce ideas, and then to make those visions an enduring reality for children, families, and workers across entire geographies.
