General Counsel

Spring Independent School District•Houston, TX

10d

About The Position

The General Counsel serves as the chief legal advisor for the District, providing comprehensive legal guidance to the Superintendent, Board of Trustees, and various administrative departments. This role involves interpreting laws and regulations, advising on policy development, and representing the District in legal matters to ensure compliance with all applicable laws. The General Counsel also oversees the Director of Board Services and the Executive Secretary – Public Information, ensuring effective governance, compliance, and management of public information requests. The General Counsel must act with integrity, support organizational goals, demonstrate the ability to inspire, grow and motivate others, utilize feedback, drive for results and commit to championing the needs of the students, employees and overall District.

Requirements

Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited institution.
Active member in good standing of the State Bar of Texas.
Minimum of 2 years of experience in public school law.
Comprehensive understanding of local, state, and federal laws relevant to education, including student rights and employment law.
Proficient in legal research and interpretation, particularly in school, employment, and contract law.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, capable of conveying complex legal concepts clearly to diverse audiences.
Strong listening and interpersonal skills, fostering effective relationships with various stakeholders.
Proven ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and maintain confidentiality.
Budget management and personnel oversight experience.

Nice To Haves

5 or more years of experience in public school law.

Responsibilities

Legal Advisory : Provide legal advice and counsel to the Superintendent, executive team, and administrators on District policies, state and federal laws, and agency decisions. Maintain communication with the Superintendent and executive team regarding litigation, investigations, grievances, and other pending matters.
Policy Development : Collaborate with the Board Policy Committee to draft, review, and revise District policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with legal standards. Support district administrators in developing and revising administrative procedures for compliance with Board policies.
Board Coordination : Coordinate with the Superintendent and Board President to ensure compliance with the Texas Open Meetings Act and manage the preparation of Board meeting agendas and supporting documentation. Attend regular and special meetings of the Board of Trustees to provide legal guidance.
Departmental Support : Provide support to the Department of Special Services, ensuring compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and other relevant laws governing special education services. Advise the Department of Business and Finance and the Department of Human Resources on procurement laws, hiring practices, employee rights, and related legal matters. Provide guidance on civil rights, personnel issues, and allegations of discrimination or harassment. Provide guidance on all other legal questions that may arise from district departments.
Litigation Management : Represent the District in lawsuits and coordinate with retained legal counsel, ensuring timely and effective legal representation. Investigate legal complaints and incidents of alleged employee misconduct, recommending corrective actions as necessary.
Public Information Management : Oversee the management of the District’s responses to public information requests under the Texas Public Information Act, ensuring compliance with all relevant laws and regulations. Supervise the Executive Secretary – Public Information in their efforts to respond to requests, coordinate billing, and maintain accurate records related to public information requests.
Training and Development : Develop and conduct training for District staff on legal matters, including grievance procedures and compliance with employment legislation.
Legislative Monitoring : Monitor and analyze legislation and judicial decisions affecting public education, providing updates to the Board and administration.
Supervisory Responsibilities : Supervise the Director of Board Services and the Executive Secretary – Public Information, ensuring effective operations and compliance with governance requirements. Oversee, select, train, and evaluate legal staff and support personnel, fostering professional development and ensuring effective legal service delivery.
Other Duties : Draft, review, and revise legal documents as directed by the Superintendent. Perform all other duties as assigned.