The evolving role of the SIS manager

As you can tell from the diagram below, data in schools is complex. Demographic data, attendance data, academic data including an increasing number of test scores, and even teacher data are proliferating. Add to this a growing number of class management systems, learning management systems, and adaptive content systems such as reading and math programs require students be added and removed from these managed programs. An increasingly larger group of users, including parents and students themselves, along with heightened security concerns, add to the challenge of data management.

The traditional role of the Student Information System manager is therefore changing as well. No longer the keeper or a single, complex database that handles demographics, scheduling, grading, health, discipline, class rank, etc., the SIS manager now must also facilitate the transfer of accurate data among systems. This job description from Miguel Guhlin's Around the Corner blog reflects the new skills needed quite nicely (I have put some items in bold.)

EAST CENTRAL INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 
Job Announcement – December 2, 2014 

Systems Interface Specialist 

The position for Systems Interface Specialist will be available in the East Central Independent School District for the 2014-2015 school year. ... The position will remain posted until it is filled. 

Primary Purpose: The Systems Interface Specialist will be responsible for working with a variety of technology systems, specializing in database interfaces between student or business information systems and third party vendors. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

1. Support the interface of cloud based hosted applications, single sign-on technologies, and curriculum and software vendors systems. 
2. Support Student Information System ... and data management systems ...
   
3. Actively learn and apply knowledge of SQL, MySQL, VBScript, Windows Batch Scripting, etc. 
4. Create and maintain project plans that identify expectations, deliverables, tasks, milestone dates, status, and resource allocation. 
5. Apply appropriate project management techniques to minimize risk and ensure the success of all projects. 
6. Establish and maintain regular written and in-person communication. 
7. Develop and maintain technical documentation related to assigned functions and responsibilities. 
8. Ensure that an exceptional level of customer service is provided. 
9. Complete post-project evaluations to determine how results were achieved. 
10. Understand and apply client/server applications architecture and management. 
11. Understand and offer input on growing the District’s network and server architecture. 
12. Display strong communication and organizational skills. 
13. Facilitate complex, cross-functional projects to successful completion with multiple departments and vendor partners. 
14. Produce high quality work in a dynamic environment. 
15. Exhibit efficient communication to stakeholders with excellent written and verbal communication skills. 
16. Display the ability to work under pressure and remain calm in the midst of changing circumstances. 
17. Exhibit the ability to rapidly adapt and respond to changes in the environment and priorities. 

About two years ago in my previous district, I started to become aware that we needed not just good database and other information system managers, but a person on staff who could make sure our disparate systems all "talked" to each other. Our student information system (Infinite Campus) was "burnt in" - running well with users (teachers, administrators, secretaries, testing coordinators, program managers, students, building improvement committees, school board members). Yet the job itself was becoming more difficult.

One big challenge is that schools lack a truly useful and affordable set of common data formats and database languages. For some reason the Microsoft SIF (School Interoperability Format) never gained traction in schools or with vendors. (Maybe I am just in the dark here?) Vendors themselves, especially in my experience, those who designed adaptive content programs (reading and math support materials) do not themselves consider how to automate importing and managing users. - "You mean the teachers can't just add the students manually?"

I suspect the role of Systems Interface Specialist  will grow in importance, eclipsing the traditional job of SIS manager. Looking for a job in education with a future? This might be it.

Comments

[Miguel Guhlin]

Doug, this post, as always, is right on target. School districts have BIG data needs...systems integration is a need that will continue to grow. I've shared some reflections, as promised, online at:
http://www.mguhlin.org/2015/01/data-driven-districts-experience.html

Warm regards from sunny San Antonio, Texas,
Miguel Guhlin
http://mguhlin.org
;-)

[Doug Johnson]

Great post, Miguel. As always you are about 3 light years ahead of me! I encourage all Blue Skunk readers to check your post out (and subscribe to your blog!)

Doug​