What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assistant Head of Lower School position at National Association of Independent Schools?

The Packer Collegiate Institute seeks a dynamic and inspiring Assistant Head of Lower School for the 2025 / 26 school year. Located in Brooklyn, NY, Packer is a vibrant PK-12 Grade independent school. The successful candidate would join a highly collaborative learning environment that emphasizes academic excellence, creativity, and student well-being.

Anticipated start date : August 2025

Position Summary :

The Assistant Head of Lower School serves as a key member of the Preschool & Lower School Leadership Team. Working closely with the Head of Preschool & Lower School (PS / LS) and the ELC Director, the Assistant Head of Lower School supports the academic, social, and emotional development of students, 1st-4th Grade. This role involves collaboration with the leadership team, as well as faculty, staff, and parents / caregivers to foster a dynamic and inclusive learning environment that aligns with the school’s mission and values. The Assistant Head provides leadership in curriculum development, faculty support and mentorship, student programming, and day-to-day operations of the Lower School. This position offers a unique opportunity to have a meaningful impact on the growth and development of students, teachers, and the broader school community.

Key Responsibilities :

Academic Leadership :

Collaborate with the Head of PS / LS to develop, implement, and assess curriculum and instructional practices
Support faculty to implement rich and authentic learning opportunities, develop and hone effective teaching strategies, and differentiate instruction to meet student needs
Monitor student assessment and progress, coordinate with teachers, and support faculty to develop intervention plans when necessary

Faculty Support and Development :

Co-develop and co-lead the Associate Teacher Program (including hiring Associate Teachers) in partnership with the ELC Director, and Head of PS / LS

Mentor and support Associate Teachers in the Lower School

Plan and deliver professional development opportunities aligned with the school’s goals and initiatives

Foster a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement among the teaching faculty

Student Support and Programming :

Oversee the development and implementation of programs that promote student well-being, character education, and social-emotional learning (including Student Council and Affinity Spaces)

Address student behavioral concerns and collaborate with faculty, specialist, and families to resolve issues

Serve as a visible and approachable presence for students, providing guidance and support as needed

Community Engagement :

Promote a welcoming and inclusive school culture that values diverse perspectives

Communicate effectively with families about school initiatives, policies, and programs

Participate in school-wide events, initiatives, and committees to contribute to the life of the PS / LS Division and the broader Packer community

Administrative Support :

Coordinate visitors, special events, assemblies, and other Preschool & Lower School activities

Partner with the Divisional Substitute Coordinator to hire and train substitute teachers and ensure coverage of classrooms in teacher absence

Develop duty rosters and ensure supervision during early morning drop-off and recess

Serve as acting Lower School Head in the Division Head’s absence

Qualifications :

Education & Experience :

Master’s degree in education

Significant teaching experience at the elementary level, with a strong understanding of child development and research-informed best practices in education

Proven leadership experience in an academic setting

A record of successfully advancing initiatives in support of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging

Skills & Attributes :

Strong ability to serve as an effective member of a collaborative leadership team. Proven capacity to lead initiatives, think creatively, and problem-solve collectively and toward shared goals

Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills, and comfort with public speaking

Demonstrated ability to connect meaningfully with young children and to engage collaboratively with all members of the school community, including students, faculty, staff, and families

Commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable learning environment

Flexibility, resilience, and capacity to toggle between institutional, divisional, and programmatic thinking

Excellent anticipatory judgment and situational discernment

Commitment to Diversity

Packer’s comprehensive commitment to diversity and equity requires all faculty members to actively and thoughtfully engage in work around identity, anti-racism, and inclusion. We actively encourage applications from candidates with broad and diverse backgrounds and from individuals of all races, nationalities, and beliefs.

Compensation and Benefits :

The Packer Collegiate Institute offers a competitive salary and benefits package, commensurate with experience, including professional development opportunities, health insurance, and retirement contributions.

Click here to apply.

J-18808-Ljbffr

Apply for this job

Receive alerts for other Assistant Head of Lower School job openings

Assistant Head of Lower School

What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assistant Head of Lower School position at National Association of Independent Schools?

What is the career path for a Assistant Head of Lower School?

Job openings at National Association of Independent Schools

Not the job you're looking for? Here are some other Assistant Head of Lower School jobs in the New York, NY area that may be a better fit.

We don't have any other Assistant Head of Lower School jobs in the New York, NY area right now.

AI Assistant is available now!