Head of School

2 weeks ago


Alexandria, Virginia, United States Alexandria City Public Schools Full time

Position Overview

Alexandria City Public Schools is in search of an innovative and strategic Head of School to lead Jefferson Houston PreK-8 IB School. The Head of School will be responsible for implementing the educational vision, fostering the school's core values, and managing the institution to ensure excellence in daily instructional practices. This role involves collaborating with the Executive Director of School Leadership within the Department of Teaching, Learning, and Leadership.

School Background:

Jefferson-Houston PreK-8 IB School stands as the first educational institution in Alexandria catering to students from pre-K through eighth grade. It operates as an International Baccalaureate (IB) school, offering both the Primary Years Programme (PYP) and Middle Years Programme (MYP). The IB framework emphasizes holistic development, equipping students with the intellectual, personal, emotional, and social competencies necessary to thrive in a technology-driven and globally interconnected environment.

The Head of School should be a proactive educational leader, capable of driving transformative change with a positive mindset focused on continuous enhancement. A successful candidate will possess a strong background in instructional leadership, demonstrating a history of significant academic improvements, fostering high staff morale, and employing a systems-thinking approach to enhance educational programming. This role requires adaptability to a highly visible, intense, and accountable work setting, serving a diverse student body in terms of ethnicity, culture, and economic background.

The ACPS Network of Schools:

Jefferson-Houston PreK-8 IB School is part of the Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS) system, which serves over 16,000 students from 120 different countries, speaking 121 languages. The ACPS network includes one pre-K institution, 12 elementary schools, two middle schools (grades 6-8), two K-8 schools, and Alexandria City High School.

Required Qualifications

Education: A Master's degree in a relevant field is mandatory; a Doctorate is preferred.

Certifications: A valid Virginia Department of Education license is required, or eligibility to obtain one, with an endorsement in Administration and Supervision.

Experience: A minimum of five years of experience in a principal role is essential. Experience in leading school improvement initiatives, particularly in elementary and/or middle school curriculum and instruction, including programs for English learners, advanced academic services, and special education (especially inclusion models), is highly desirable.

Key Responsibilities

Transformational Leadership

  • Conduct quarterly assessments and progress evaluations with key stakeholders.
  • Facilitate team building and strategic planning with faculty.
  • Provide weekly updates to staff regarding school expectations and climate.
  • Establish a systematic approach to teaching, learning, and leadership within the school.
  • Engage the community through activities that strengthen school-community relations.
  • Organize ongoing professional development opportunities for staff focusing on social, emotional, and academic learning.
  • Develop and oversee a data reporting and accountability system for the school.

Promoting Instructional Excellence

  • Articulate a clear instructional vision with a school-wide emphasis on data-driven, standards-aligned teaching and learning.
  • Demonstrate expertise in utilizing instruction to achieve student success.
  • Identify effective instructional practices and provide constructive feedback, coaching, and professional development to enhance teaching quality.
  • Exhibit knowledge of educational theories and practices, particularly standards-based instruction.
  • Implement consistent, research-based instructional practices that yield clear results.
  • Create opportunities for continuous learning and staff development informed by data.
  • Guide and support the fulfillment of instructional, curricular, and program requirements.
  • Review instructional programs and services to ensure they meet the needs of students and the school community.
  • Collaborate with other ACPS principals to foster division-wide and school improvement.
  • Embrace and exemplify the IB philosophy and IB Learner Profile.

Supporting Student Accessibility and Success

  • Foster a belief in the potential and promise of every student.
  • Provide evidence of student achievement at the classroom level.
  • Focus on data-driven growth to guide the school towards its goals.
  • Manage change effectively, making necessary decisions to advance the school and its students.
  • Engage in continuous personal learning and adaptation in response to challenges and successes.
  • Ensure proper evaluation of student progress and program effectiveness.
  • Collaboratively develop and implement a school improvement plan aimed at enhancing student success.
  • Utilize diverse data sources to inform decisions that improve performance across the board.

Engaging Staff, Families, and the Community

  • Effectively engage community members to include all stakeholders in school improvement efforts.
  • Communicate openly with all stakeholders, building strong relationships with faculty, staff, families, and students.
  • Maintain professional relationships through effective communication with parents and the community.
  • Cultivate leadership development opportunities for staff members.
  • Support community engagement initiatives related to school improvement efforts.

Operational Leadership and Resource Management

  • Demonstrate understanding of the Title I process.
  • Ensure efficient school operations and resource management to minimize disruptions to teaching and learning.
  • Foster a purposeful school culture that promotes a safe and effective learning environment.
  • Align human resources with school needs, setting high expectations for all staff.
  • Communicate a clear vision of excellence and pursue it consistently.
  • Oversee extracurricular programs to maintain high standards of student conduct.
  • Manage daily operations to ensure the safety and efficiency of the school environment.
  • Prepare the school budget and monitor expenditures, ensuring accountability for school resources.
  • Select, instruct, support, and evaluate staff to achieve educational objectives.
  • Utilize problem-solving techniques to address and resolve issues effectively.
  • Perform additional tasks as required to maintain an efficient work environment.

Required Clearances:

  • Criminal Justice Fingerprint/Background Clearance.
  • Tuberculosis Skin Test.

Health Compliance:

  • Adhere to safety and health protocols.

WP



  • Alexandria, Virginia, United States VAIS Full time

    About the PositionThe Head of School is a visionary leader responsible for overseeing the strategic direction and daily operations of Grace Episcopal School. This exceptional individual will inspire and motivate the school community, foster a culture of excellence, and drive academic achievement.Key ResponsibilitiesDevelop and implement a comprehensive...


  • Alexandria, Virginia, United States Alexandria City Public Schools Full time

    Position Overview: Head Coach for Girls BasketballWe are seeking a dedicated individual to take on the role of Head Coach for our Middle School Girls Basketball Program. This position involves overseeing the athletic program while fostering a supportive environment that prioritizes both athletic and academic success for our students.Essential...


  • Alexandria, Virginia, United States City Of Alexandria Virginia Full time

    Recreation Leader III- Head LifeguardRecreation Services"Preserving the Past, while Innovating our Future." The City of Alexandria is located in Northern Virginia and is bordered by the District of Columbia (Potomac River), Arlington and Fairfax counties. With a population of approximately 150,000 and a land area of 15.75 square miles, Alexandria is the...


  • Alexandria, Virginia, United States National Society of Black Engineers Full time

    Join Our Dynamic TeamPosition: Head of Marketing and CommunicationsDepartment: Marketing & CommunicationsReports to: Chief Executive OfficerWork Arrangement: RemoteEmployment Type: Full-timeSalary Range: $92,000 - $115,000Level: 6Overview:We are seeking an experienced Head of Marketing and Communications to lead our organization’s strategic marketing,...


  • Alexandria, Virginia, United States Alexandria City Public Schools Full time

    Athletic Program Leadership OpportunityThe Alexandria City Public Schools is seeking a highly qualified and experienced Athletic Program Head Coach to lead our comprehensive girls basketball program. As a key member of our athletic team, you will be responsible for providing effective leadership, emphasizing academic achievement, and serving as a positive...


  • Alexandria, Virginia, United States National Society of Black Engineers Full time

    About the RolePosition: Head of Marketing & CommunicationsDepartment: Marketing & CommunicationsReports to: Chief Executive OfficerWork Arrangement: RemoteEmployment Type: Full-timeSalary Range: $92,000 - $115,000Level: 6Overview:We are seeking an experienced Head of Marketing & Communications to spearhead our organization's strategic marketing,...


  • Alexandria, Virginia, United States Old Town - South Block Full time

    Job Opportunity at Old Town - South Block**About the Role**We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced individual to fill the position of Apprentice Head Coach at Old Town - South Block. As a key member of our team, you will be responsible for leading our team of Blockstars, fostering their growth, and ensuring our store operates seamlessly.Key...


  • Alexandria, Virginia, United States National Society of Black Engineers Full time

    About the RolePosition: Director of Marketing & CommunicationsDepartment: Marketing & CommunicationsReports to: Chief Executive OfficerWork Arrangement: RemoteEmployment Status: Full-timeSalary Range: $92,000 - $115,000Level: 6Position Overview:We are seeking an experienced Director of Marketing & Communications to spearhead our organization's strategic...


  • Alexandria, Virginia, United States St. Stephen's and St. Agnes School Full time

    Job OverviewThe Advancement Office at St. Stephen's and St. Agnes School is dedicated to engaging and nurturing relationships with over 7,000 active constituents, including alumni, current parents, grandparents, parents of alumni, faculty, and staff. As the school progresses with the Saints Together Campaign and commemorates its centennial, we are in search...


  • Alexandria, Virginia, United States Soliant Full time

    Job SummaryWe are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) to join our team at Soliant. This itinerant position involves working primarily at one elementary school, with additional responsibilities at two daycare settings and one Head Start program.Key Responsibilities:Conduct comprehensive assessments and evaluations to...


  • Alexandria, Virginia, United States National Society of Black Engineers Full time

    Welcome to the National Society of Black EngineersPosition: Director of Strategic Marketing and CommunicationsDepartment: Marketing & CommunicationsReports to: Chief Executive OfficerLocation: Remote WorkEmployment Type: Full-timeAnnual Salary Range: $92,000 - $115,000Level: 6Job Overview:We are seeking an experienced Director of Strategic Marketing and...


  • Alexandria, Virginia, United States The Scholarship Fund of Alexandria Full time

    The Scholarship Fund of AlexandriaChief Operations Officer*Applicants must submit a cover letter. Please explain why you are applying for this position and why you would be an ideal candidate.*The Scholarship Fund of Alexandria (SFA) is in search of a dynamic and passionate individual dedicated to our mission as a Chief Operations Officer. This full-time,...


  • Alexandria, Virginia, United States Celebree School of Alexandria Full time

    Become a Childcare Support Specialist at Celebree School of AlexandriaBenefits:Uniform Items ProvidedTeam Building InitiativesEmployee Referral BonusesDiscounts on Child Care ServicesPaid Holidays OfferedAccess to Free Continuing Education UnitsNo Night or Weekend ShiftsOpportunities for Career Development401(k) Plan AvailableHealth Insurance CoveragePaid...


  • Alexandria, Virginia, United States Celebree School of Alexandria Full time

    Become a Childcare Support Specialist at Celebree School of AlexandriaWhat We Offer:Uniform ProvisionTeam Building Activities at No CostReferral Bonuses for EmployeesDiscounts on Childcare ServicesPaid HolidaysComplimentary Continuing Education UnitsNo Night or Weekend ShiftsOpportunities for Career Advancement401(k) Retirement PlanHealth Insurance...


  • Alexandria, Virginia, United States Celebree School of Alexandria Full time

    Become a Childcare Support Specialist at Celebree School of AlexandriaBenefits:Uniform Items ProvidedTeam Building Initiatives at No CostReferral Bonuses for EmployeesDiscounts on Childcare ServicesPaid Holidays OfferedFree Continuing Education OpportunitiesNo Night or Weekend Shifts RequiredCareer Growth Opportunities401(k) Retirement PlanHealth Insurance...


  • Alexandria, Virginia, United States City Of Alexandria Virginia Full time

    Senior TherapistSchool-BasedThe City of Alexandria is located in northern Virginia and is bordered by the District of Columbia (Potomac River), Arlington and Fairfax counties. With a population of approximately 150,000 and a land area of 15.75 square miles, Alexandria is the seventh largest city in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Alexandria has a charming...

  • Campaign Manager

    1 month ago


    Alexandria, Virginia, United States St. Stephen's and St. Agnes School Full time

    The St. Stephen's and St. Agnes School Advancement Office is responsible for engaging, cultivating and soliciting over 7,000 active constituents including alumni, current parents, grandparents, parents of alumni, faculty and staff. As the school moves the priorities forward of the Saints Together Campaign and celebrates its centennial year, it seeks a...


  • Alexandria, Virginia, United States City Of Alexandria Virginia Full time

    School Crossing GuardThe City of Alexandria is located in northern Virginia, and is bordered by the District of Columbia (Potomac River), Arlington, and Fairfax counties. With a population of approximately 150,000 and a land area of 15.75 square miles, Alexandria is the seventh largest city in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Alexandria has a charming...


  • Alexandria, Virginia, United States Celebree School of Alexandria Full time

    Job DescriptionBenefits:Complimentary Uniform ItemsTeam Building ActivitiesReferral Bonuses for EmployeesDiscounts on Child CarePaid HolidaysFree Continuing Education UnitsOpportunities for Career AdvancementBenefits may vary by location:401(k) PlanHealth InsurancePaid Time Off401(k) MatchingPerformance-Based BonusesDental CoverageVision CoverageHours:...


  • Alexandria, Virginia, United States Celebree School of Pike Creek Full time

    About the Role:Celebree School of Pike Creek is seeking a highly skilled and experienced professional to fill the position of Vice President of Alliance Development. This key role will be responsible for building and maintaining strategic relationships with external partners, including pharmaceutical companies, health insurers, health systems, digital...