Head of Academics

To act as the academic leader of the school, responsible for its day-to-day academics monitoring student academic progress and addressing any deficiencies with the teachers. Coordinating the efforts of the Chair heads. Observes, coaches, mentors, supervises and evaluates faculty in the development and implementation of curriculum. This includes both informal and formal observations. Ensure that all faculty adhere to grading and academic policies. Data analysis will be conducted using Austin Peace Academy’s Learning Management System (Gradelink) to include: struggling students, failing students, possible grade inflation to ensure equity across grade levels and subjects. This will also include communication to teachers to assist students’ academic success. Data analysis for IOWA / PSAT /AP. To assist teachers in matching appropriate assessment instruments to curriculum objectives and to assist faculty in developing a uniform, detailed curriculum. To serve as a resource for faculty, recommending workshops, speakers, programs, school observations, etc. To conduct a minimum of two workshops per year for faculty to keep faculty informed of current trends/research in curriculum and instruction. To serve as a role model to encourage faculty self-evaluation, professional growth, scholarship, and effective training. Prepare Performance Improvement Plan program and solicit ideas for agenda items for possible inclusion in faculty meetings. Analyzes current academic achievement data and instructional strategies to make appropriate educational decisions to improve classroom instruction. To hold regularly scheduled meetings with new teachers for open discussion of educational issues, to maintain records of these meetings, and to provide minutes of such meetings to the division heads. The assignment of faculty includes establishing programs for the orientation of new teachers, providing in-service training of all teachers, and for the evaluation of classroom teachers, to ensure that teachers are familiar with and adhere to school policies. To conduct regular meetings with faculty and with department chairs, which will deal with routine school matters and with the stimulating exchange of ideas on issues of educational/philosophical interest and concern. Properly implements the teacher and staff performance evaluation system by conducting mid-year and end of year evaluations in a timely manner. Documents evidence of teacher effectiveness, provides timely, on-going formal and informal feedback on strengths and areas of growth, and provides support, access to resources, and professional learning opportunities for teachers and staff to improve job effectiveness. Academic School Climate: To serve as a mentor to teachers in matters of classroom management, teaching methods, and general school procedures. To oversee the curriculum and to suggest recommendations for correcting overlaps/gaps. To prepare the annual report on the state of the curriculum and academics. To assure uniformity in assessment, parent reporting, and academic standards. To review all proposed changes to the curriculum and provide updates on a yearly basis. To suggest methods for integrating instruction, cross-grade units, etc. To coordinate regular textbook reviews with department chairs on a regularly scheduled basis. To make recommendations to the Head of School regarding problems or concerns relating to curriculum or students. To review the level of homework and student projects. Provides the instructional focus and creates the culture for continuous learning of all members of the school community. To review academic balance throughout the academic year. Collaboratively plans, implements, supports, monitors, and evaluates programs that enhance teaching and student academic progress. To oversee school-wide standardized testing programs. To schedule parent/teacher conferences and to maintain records and correspondence relating to parent conferences. Addresses barriers to teacher and staff performance and provides positive working conditions to encourage retention of highly effective personnel. Other Duties: To teach TWO core classes in Upper School. Perform other duties as assigned by the Head of School. Creates a culture of respect, understanding, sensitivity, and appreciation for students, staff, and other stakeholders, and models these attributes on a daily basis. Maintains a professional appearance and demeanor. Be willing to provide coverage for absent teachers. Maintains confidentiality. Assumes responsibility for personal professional growth through accurate self-reflection on professional practice, and engages in continuous learning. Consistently models and collaboratively promotes high expectations, mutual respect, concern, and empathy for students, staff, parents, and community.

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