About Us
ZEST Preparatory Academy Charter School is a K-5 charter school located in Douglasville, GA, part of the Metro Atlanta area. The school opened in August 2023 with kindergarten through 3rd grade and will continue to expand annually until fully enrolled.
Our mission is to provide an academically rigorous, supportive, and joyful learning environment that nurtures leadership in every student, preparing them for lifelong educational success and impactful community service.
We achieve this mission through :
- Rigorous academics : Students master core subjects, develop advanced academic skills, and learn to apply knowledge at higher levels.
- Leadership development : Students hone leadership abilities both in and out of school.
- Community service : Students engage in service to make a meaningful impact on their communities.
At ZEST Prep, we believe every student deserves an excellent education and that it is our collective responsibility to prepare them to take their place as future leaders. We are also committed to early college and career readiness, ensuring our students live choice-filled lives.
Our Approach
Our college-preparatory model focuses on three key areas :
Language and Literacy Development : A strong emphasis on literacy increases critical thinking and reading proficiency for all students.Discovery-Based Learning : Teachers encourage students to take ownership of their learning by exploring new ideas and solving real-world challenges.Leadership Skills : Starting in kindergarten, students are taught essential leadership habits, empowering them to apply these skills in their academic and personal lives.Job Title : Associate Director of Academics and Culture
Classification : District-Administrative
Reports To : Executive Director
Position Summary
The Associate Director of Academics and Culture is integral to ZEST Prep's success, co-leading the implementation of highly effective teaching and learning practices. This role supports the day-to-day academic and instructional programming, student and staff culture, ensuring alignment with the school's mission and long-term goals.
Working closely with the Executive Director, administrative team, and other key leaders, the Associate Director drives academic excellence and fosters a positive school culture.
Key Responsibilities
Academic Leadership and Instructional Excellence :
Co-lead the implementation of the school's instructional vision, curriculum development, and professional development.Ensures that frameworks and processes are in place for cycles of operational progress monitoring, strategic planning and annual goal settingCo-lead and implement strategic initiatives of the schoolWorks closely with the Associate Director of Specialized Services, Instructional Coaches, Grade Level Chairs, and key stakeholders to ensure appropriate programming and complianceEnsure instruction is aligned to the Georgia Standards of ExcellenceConduct weekly classroom observations to ensure alignment with Georgia Standards of Excellence and the Science of Reading.Work closely with Instructional Coaches to support teacher and student growthStrong Knowledge of Curriculum such as : 95% Group Phonics, EL Education, Eureka Math Squared, Leader In MeMaintains an academic budget to meet student achievement goalsStudent Growth and Data Management :
Monitor student data and promote a data-driven culture to ensure positive outcomes on Georgia assessments and internal measures like NWEA MAP, IXL, Literacy Assessments etc.Support planning, preparation, and administration for standardized testsSupports MTSS compliance for grades K-5Data and operations reporting to the Executive DirectorMaintain student records, documents, and files for reporting to the Executive DirectorEnsures teachers maintain student data bindersReport cardsSupport the development course and class schedulesData Management in the SIS (Infinite Campus)Family and Community Engagement / Student Recruitment
Supports the implementation of a robust parent and community involvement plan that prioritizes students' success and the needs of the school communityHolding teachers accountable for effective and regular communication with parents and studentsSupport systems and processes to support recruitment and enrollment and collaborate with Executive Director and Senior Director of Operations to oversee recruitment of new students and ensure school meets all enrollment goalsSupports and attends family engagement and student recruitment eventsStudent Culture and Behavior
Implement school-wide behavior management systems that promote positive student interactions, leadership, and accountability.Conduct weekly classroom observations to support a consistent culture of high expectations for behavior and learning.Collaborate with staff to provide social-emotional learning (SEL) opportunities and leadership development for students.Staff Culture and InvestmentFoster a culture of collaboration, growth, and accountability among staff.Provide coaching, professional development, and clear systems to support teacher effectiveness and retention.Celebrate staff achievements and contributions to a positive school environment.Leadership and Operations :
Assist in maintaining the integrity and success of ZEST Preparatory AcademyCo-Manages and supports teachers and school based staffSupports the School Operations team in leading school operationsAncillary Duties : Include, but are not limited to :
Demonstrate positive support for the Board, administrative team, school staff, and the communityParticipate on School Leadership TeamPromote positive school cultureAttend after school activitiesAssist with student arrival and dismissalPerform other duties as assigned by the Executive DirectorQualifications and Experience
Education : Master's degree in education or related field required; advanced degree preferred.Certification : Georgia Educator Certificate required; Leadership Certification preferred or willing to obtain within two years.Experience :Minimum of 5 years in education leadership.Experience with charter schools and Georgia public school systems is highly desirable.Knowledge and Skills :Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills.Knowledge of Georgia educational policies, charter school flexibility, and public school funding.Commitment to fostering a collaborative and inclusive school culture.Compensation and Benefits
Salary : $75,000-$90,000, commensurate with experience.Benefits : Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance.Commitment to Diversity
ZEST Preparatory Academy values diversity and is committed to building a team of leaders from varied backgrounds. We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, gender, age, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or national origin.
Salary : $75,000 - $90,000
