This is the time of year when district-level K–12 EdTech Leaders or CTOs/CIOs move on—whether for new opportunities or to retire. Whatever the reason, vacancies start opening up in late spring. If you're an aspiring CTO, you might be wondering whether to apply.
Maybe you’ve held a leadership role in your current district, or perhaps you’ve been serving in a similar position elsewhere.
Are you hesitating, thinking, “What if the current CTO had an education background, and I’m from the tech side?” or vice versa? “Do I have the skill set they are looking for? Am I ready? You alone can answer those questions, but please consider this. The shoes will be filled—why not by you?
In our work with the CoSN K-12 Academy and when speaking at conferences, we often get questions from aspiring CTOs about ways to prepare for the interview. Here are a few tips that many have found helpful.
Are you hesitating, thinking, “What if the current CTO had an education background, and I’m from the tech side?” or vice versa? “Do I have the skill set they are looking for? Am I ready? You alone can answer those questions, but please consider this. The shoes will be filled—why not by you?
In our work with the CoSN K-12 Academy and when speaking at conferences, we often get questions from aspiring CTOs about ways to prepare for the interview. Here are a few tips that many have found helpful.
- Know What the District Wants. Start by finding out if the Superintendent and Board are satisfied with how the department has been run, or if they’re seeking change. This will guide how many “new” ideas you bring forth when answering scenario-based questions. Even when the district is looking for change, present your ideas positively and avoid negatively referencing the previous CTO’s decisions. Move forward, not backward, with your responses. Acknowledge the legacy by pointing out some of the team's successes. Remember, you may not know the relationship between the interview committee and the previous CTO. Respectful, forward-thinking answers are always best.
- Align with Student Learning. Even if your background is technical, make sure your responses reflect a focus on student learning—the core mission of every K–12 district. If you come from an educational background, be ready to explain how you'll manage the technical aspects of the role. Either way, demonstrate how your expertise supports student success.
- Understand the Bigger Picture. Before the interview, reflect on and consider how you can add value to the district’s broader mission. Familiarize yourself with the district’s strategic goals and take time to understand areas beyond the technology department. This shows your readiness to lead at the district level.
- Embrace Leadership Growth. Stepping into a district-level EdTech leadership role often requires a shift in mindset. Be prepared to adopt and grow into leadership habits that are essential for success. Demonstrate your willingness to adapt and grow into the new role.
- Prepare Strategically. Study the job description carefully. Use it to craft specific, thoughtful responses that reflect the listed qualities and responsibilities. While you can’t predict every question, thoughtful preparation, mental rehearsals, and even role-playing scenarios can build your confidence. Write down your answers and practice saying them aloud, they should be clear, concise, and confident.
- The interview team will want to ensure you are ready to handle all aspects of the leadership role. For starters, consider the leadership qualities below.
- The interview team will want to ensure you are ready to handle all aspects of the leadership role. For starters, consider the leadership qualities below.
Leading a Team:
If you’re stepping up from within the team, consider how you’ll manage that transition. You may need to initiate a “relationship reset.” Previously, you were responsible for your own performance; now, you’ll be accountable for the team's overall well-being and productivity. Highlight your commitment to fairness, consistency, and open communication. Emphasize the importance of clear expectations, regular feedback, and active listening.
Managing Resources and Budget:
Reflect on past experiences, conversations, and coursework to respond to any questions concerning your ability to manage a budget, including procurement processes, inventory, and equity. A strong approach is to describe how you would collaborate with the CFO and ensure transparency and sustainability.
Being Part of the Leadership Team:
This role is bigger than running the technology department. As part of the district’s leadership team, your influence and accountability extend district wide. Show that you're ready to contribute ideas, own outcomes, and collaborate across departments to support student learning and district goals.
Let your EdTech leadership qualities shine. Show your understanding of the district’s culture; your positive, can-do attitude; thoughtful decision-making; and ability to zoom in when needed or step back and take a broader view. Display confidence without arrogance. The more you prepare in these areas now, the more successful you’ll be—both in the interview and in the role itself.