What are the responsibilities and job description for the Head of Lower School position at Gerstell Academy?
Gerstell Academy is searching for an inspiring and visionary leader to assume the role of Head of Lower School. The ideal candidate will possess a comprehensive understanding of the Gerstell Academy Leadership Model and demonstrate the ability to guide and mentor faculty and staff in fulfilling Gerstell Academy’s Mission both within and beyond the classroom.
The Head of Lower School will serve as an educational leader, managing policies, procedures, and operations to maintain a safe, orderly, and mission-aligned learning environment for all students in grades PK through 4. The successful candidate will combine visionary leadership with practical management skills to advance the mission of Gerstell Academy and nurture students’ academic and leadership growth.
The Head of Lower School shall:
- Cultivate a Lower School environment that reflects the Gerstell Academy Leadership Model, ensuring that faculty and staff embody and promote the Leadership Principles and Attributes.
- Oversee, evaluate, and implement clear, effective operational procedures aligned with the school’s philosophy, mission, values, and goals. This encompasses instructional programs, professional development, extracurricular activities, and discipline systems rooted in the Leadership Principles and Attributes.
- Exhibit the highest standards of ethical and moral professionalism when engaging with students, faculty, staff, and parents.
- Encourage and support students and staff in reaching their full potential for leadership development, academic growth, and professional excellence while creating a positive climate for teaching and learning.
- Maintain daily visibility and engagement with students, teachers, parents, and the President, as well as the Board of Trustees, when appropriate.
- Establish strong, cooperative relationships with parents, communicating regularly to seek their support and guidance in fostering student success.
- Supervise building maintenance, manage programs and office operations, interact with the broader school community, and oversee emergency procedures.
- Develop and implement an annual master schedule for instructional programs, ensuring sequential and developmentally appropriate learning experiences.
- Oversee and ensure the clear and accurate communication of student progress at the end of each marking period, including the accuracy of ratings and comments.
- Collaborate with the Academic Affairs Committee, Technology Department, and other divisional administrators to evaluate and select instructional materials and equipment.
- Work with the All-School Academic Support Specialist to create Learning Accommodations Plans for Lower School students as needed.
- Participate in the Admissions Screening Process for primary applicants and review all Lower School application files alongside the Director of Lower School Admissions.
- Conduct classroom observations, provide written feedback, and facilitate annual evaluations as part of the Professional Growth Cycle, with opportunities for teacher feedback and development.
- Regularly review and update policies and procedures outlined in the Student/Parent Handbook and Faculty/Staff Handbook, ensuring consistent enforcement.
- Undertake additional duties as assigned by the President, remaining flexible to the evolving needs of the school.
Desired candidates will have at least a Master’s Degree along with five years of exceptional teaching and leadership experience. Qualified candidates should submit a cover letter and resume to Mrs. Alison Davis, Executive Assistant to the President, at adavis@gerstell.org
