Director of School Programs

Position: Director of School Programs

About IDEA

IDEA Public Charter School in Washington, D.C. serves approximately 320 students in Grades 9-12. IDEA is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. We are committed to creating a workplace where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered.

Position Summary: 

The Director of School Programs is a senior leadership role responsible for ensuring the effective design, implementation, and continuous improvement of all academic and student support programs at IDEA. Reporting directly to the CEO, the Director of School Programs will work closely with school leadership, teachers, and staff to drive excellence in instruction, student achievement, school culture, and operational execution.

This role is ideal for a dynamic, results-oriented leader with a strong instructional background and a deep commitment to constant improvement. The Director of School Programs will serve as a thought partner, systems builder, and effective manager—ensuring that all elements of the school’s program are implemented with fidelity. 

Key responsibilities include overseeing curriculum and instruction, managing professional development, overseeing student support services, and ensuring that daily school operations reinforce a strong culture of learning and high expectations.

The Director of School Programs plays a critical role in setting and maintaining high standards for teaching and learning, with the authority to lead cross-functional initiatives that strengthen school performance and student outcomes.

Primary Responsibilities:

Instructional Leadership

• Oversee the implementation and evaluation of the school’s academic programs, including the core components of curriculum, instruction, and assessment.
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• Lead curriculum-based data-driven instructional planning, monitor student achievement data, and support staff in using data to drive instruction and intervention.
• Design and facilitate high-impact professional development that builds instructional capacity across all content areas.
• Coach and support instructional leaders, including principal, vice principal, department chairs, instructional coach, and teacher leaders.

Program Oversight & Alignment

• Ensure alignment and coherence across academic, social-emotional, and enrichment programs to support whole-child development.
• Monitor the fidelity and effectiveness of curriculum implementation, assessments, and school-wide instructional strategies.
• Work with school leadership to identify and implement strategic program improvements that drive student achievement and engagement.
• Support integration of career and technical education (CTE), special education, and English learner services into the broader school program.

School Culture & Climate

• Collaborate with leadership to foster a positive and academically-focused school culture.
• Work closely with student support teams to implement behavior systems, interventions, and restorative practices that uphold high expectations and support student development.

Operations & Leadership

• Serve as a key member of the school’s leadership team, contributing to strategic planning and school-wide decision-making.
• Manage and evaluate program staff and instructional leaders as assigned.
• Collaborate with the CEO and other leaders to ensure smooth day-to-day school operations that support learning.
• Represent the school in external partnerships, community meetings, and with families, as needed.

Required Social-Emotional Competencies:

Emotional Intelligence:  

• Demonstrates self-awareness and the ability to recognize and manage one's emotions effectively. 
• Exhibits empathy and understanding towards others, fostering positive relationships and a supportive work environment. 
• Maintains composure under pressure and handles conflicts or challenging situations with tact and emotional maturity.

Teamwork and Collaboration:  

• Works collaboratively with colleagues, staff, and stakeholders to achieve common goals and foster a sense of unity. 
• Actively listens to others, values diverse perspectives, and encourages open dialogue. 
• Builds effective teams, delegates tasks appropriately, and promotes a culture of mutual respect and cooperation.

Flexibility and Adaptability:  

• Demonstrates openness and flexibility in embracing change and adjusting to new circumstances or initiatives. 
• Adapts quickly to evolving situations and demonstrates a willingness to learn and grow from challenges. 
• Encourages innovation and supports creative problem-solving approaches.

Problem-Solving Skills:  

• Analyzes complex issues, identifies root causes, and generates creative solutions. 
• Applies critical thinking and sound judgment to make informed decisions. 
• Seeks input from relevant stakeholders and considers multiple perspectives before arriving at conclusions.

Ability to Accept and Provide Constructive Feedback:  

• Receives feedback with an open mind, demonstrating a growth mindset and a willingness to improve. 
• Provides constructive feedback to others in a respectful and supportive manner, focusing on professional growth and development. 
• Actively seeks feedback from colleagues and stakeholders to enhance performance and effectiveness.

Effective Communication:  

• Communicates clearly, confidently, and respectfully with diverse audiences, including staff, parents, students, and community members. 
• Listens attentively, asks thoughtful questions, and seeks to understand others' viewpoints. 
• Uses appropriate verbal and written communication skills to convey complex ideas and information effectively.

Disagreeing Appropriately: 

• Engages in constructive dialogue and debates while maintaining respect and professionalism. 
• Expresses dissenting opinions or disagreements tactfully, considering the impact on relationships and the broader goals. 
• Demonstrates the ability to find common ground and work towards consensus when faced with differing perspectives.

Relationship Building:  

• Builds and maintains positive and trusting relationships with staff, parents, students, and community members. 
• Demonstrates approachability, active listening, and the ability to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds. 
• Cultivates a sense of community, fosters collaboration, and promotes a welcoming and inclusive environment.

Resilience and Persistence:  

• Exhibits determination and resilience in the face of challenges and setbacks. 
• Maintains a positive attitude, motivates others, and leads by example during difficult times. 
• Demonstrates perseverance in pursuing long-term goals and continuous improvement.

Ethical and Professional Conduct:  

• Demonstrates high ethical standards and acts with integrity in all professional interactions. 
• Maintains confidentiality and handles sensitive information with discretion. 
• Upholds professional boundaries and adheres to relevant laws, regulations, and ethical guidelines. 

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree (master’s degree or higher preferred) 
• 5 years of teaching experience
• 5 years of school leadership experience (experience may include teacher leadership, nonprofit management, or other non-traditional types of leadership) 
• 5 years of managing other people 

Compensation:

Annual Salary: $135k - $160k: Competitive and commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Benefits: health, dental,vision, and life insurance

FLSA: full time, exempt, 12 month

Anticipated Start Date:  As soon as possible. 

Learn More and Apply:

Learn more about IDEA via our webpage, Facebook or Twitter.

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