Executive Director

Executive Director - Academy of Arts and Knowledge

Focus: Enrollment Growth, Facility Expansion, Construction, and Academic Excellence Position Overview:

The Executive Director (ED) of Academy of Arts and Knowledge serves as the chief executive officer, providing visionary leadership to drive the school's growth, operational excellence, and academic success. This role focuses on increasing student enrollment, leading facility expansion and construction projects, and ensuring high academic standards.

The ED works closely with the board of directors, school leadership, faculty, families and community stakeholders to sustain a thriving educational environment that meets the needs of all students. Additionally, the ED mentors the principal and instructional leadership team, ensuring a strong pipeline for future leadership through high-quality onboarding and succession planning.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Growth & Enrollment Expansion

• Develop and implement a comprehensive enrollment strategy to increase student recruitment and retention.
• Strengthen community outreach, marketing, and partnerships to promote the school's mission and attract new families.
• Analyze enrollment trends and demographics to target key growth areas and improve recruitment efforts.
• Foster relationships with feeder schools, community organizations, and local businesses to support student recruitment.
• Oversee the development of innovative academic and extracurricular programs and services that appeal to prospective families.

Facility Expansion & Construction Oversight

• Lead the planning, development, and execution of facility expansion and construction projects.
• Work with architects, contractors, and project managers to ensure timely and cost-effective completion of building projects.
• Secure funding for facility improvements through grants, capital campaigns, and private donations.
• Ensure compliance with zoning laws, safety regulations, and building codes. Oversee space planning and resource allocation to support school growth and operational efficiency.

Academic Excellence & Student Achievement

• Ensure the school maintains high-quality academic standards aligned with state standards and the school's mission.
• Mentor the principal and instructional leadership team, fostering strong leadership and continuity within the school.
• Support the recruitment, development, and retention of highly effective educators. Oversee professional development programs to support teacher growth and instructional innovation.
• Foster a data-driven culture that continuously evaluates and improves student performance.
• Ensure equitable access to academic support and enrichment programs for all students. Provide high-quality onboarding for new leadership team members to ensure effective succession planning.

Financial Management & Fundraising

• Develop and manage budgets related to enrollment growth, facility expansion, and academic programs.
• Identify and secure additional funding sources, including state/federal grants, philanthropic donations, and bond financing.
• Work with the board and finance team to ensure financial sustainability and responsible fiscal planning.

Charter Reauthorization & Compliance

• Lead reauthorization efforts with the Colorado Charter School Institute (CSI) to ensure the school maintains its charter status.
• Develop and implement a strategic plan to meet and exceed CSI performance expectations in academics, finance, and governance.
• Prepare and submit all required reports, renewal applications, and compliance documents to CSI.
• Engage with the board and school leadership to strengthen accountability, transparency, and adherence to charter requirements.
• Ensure alignment with CSI policies, state education laws, and charter renewal benchmarks.

Stakeholder & Community Engagement

• Communicate the school's vision for growth and academic excellence to parents, staff, and community members.
• Engage with local government, educational agencies, and businesses to gain support for expansion efforts.
• Ensure transparency and collaboration with stakeholders regarding construction updates, academic initiatives, and long-term development plans.

Compliance & Operational Excellence

• Ensure adherence to charter agreements, state regulations, and facility requirements. Develop policies and procedures to support the school's expansion while maintaining operational efficiency.
• Proactively identify and address challenges that may arise from increased enrollment or facility changes.

Basic Qualifications

Required:

• Proven experience in school leadership, with at least 5 years in elementary education administration.
• Demonstrated success in managing operational aspects of schools, including effective financial management and facility development.
• Demonstrated expertise and excellence in oral and written communications, public speaking, training, conflict resolution, supervision and negotiation.

Preferred:

• Colorado Department of Education (CDE) Principal Licensure.
• Master's degree in education.
• Experience in charter school leadership or similar educational environments.
• Knowledge of special needs education, Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), and diverse learner support.
• Experience managing large budgets and leading large scale fundraising initiatives.

Location: 4800 Wheaton Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80525

FLSA Status:Exempt

Reports To: School Board

Work Hours: Full Time

Wage Range: $100,000-$110,000 annually

Benefits: 100% employer paid plans offered for employee health, dental and vision 401(K) with a 100% match up to 5% of compensation; please note: this is not a PERA-eligible position. Annual paid vacation time.