Education Policy & Government Relations Director

Illinois Association of School Boards; Springfield (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Illinois Association of School Boards seeks a Director, full-time, to lead statewide advocacy initiatives in Illinois and coordinate federal advocacy efforts with member boards and legislators. You will serve as a liaison to the Illinois General Assembly and the State Board of Education, guiding staff support and research on proposed legislation.

The role requires strong writing, public speaking, and relationship-building across government and education partners.

Qualifications

• Graduate or undergraduate degree in Political Science or related field.
• Knowledge of Illinois and U.S. legislative processes.
• Experience as a lobbyist, legislative staff, or related role preferred.

Responsibilities

• Directs state advocacy initiatives: drafting legislation, identifying sponsors, fact sheets, testifying, and meeting legislators.
• Directs federal advocacy initiatives: monitoring reports, coordinating with associations, and federal lobbying.
• Develops IASB’s federal advocacy priorities to Congressional offices and agencies.
• Attends Illinois General Assembly sessions and committee meetings as needed.
• Educates IASB members to advocate on state and federal policy.

Skills

Advocacy

Legislation drafting

Testifying

Stakeholder relations

Education

Political Science degree

Tools

Legislative Information Service

Illinois General Assembly website

Job description

Illinois Association of School Boards seeks a Director, full-time, to lead statewide advocacy initiatives in Illinois and coordinate federal advocacy efforts with member boards and legislators. You will serve as a liaison to the Illinois General Assembly and the State Board of Education, guiding staff support and research on proposed legislation.

The role requires strong writing, public speaking, and relationship-building across government and education partners.