Head of Lower School at Grace-St. Luke's School

Company: Choose901
Location: Memphis
Posted on: October 8, 2024

Job Description:

The Head of Lower School at Grace-St. Luke's Episcopal School (GSL) serves as the educational and administrative leader of the division, responsible for the holistic development of students, faculty, and programs while fostering strong relationships with families and the broader school community. Reporting directly to the Head of School, the Head of Lower School works in close collaboration with other division leaders (Preschool and Middle School), forming the core academic administrative team that drives the mission of GSL. The incoming Head of Lower School will have the opportunity to guide an evolving and innovative program that is rooted in the school's traditions of academic excellence and community.
This individual is responsible for guiding a dedicated team of faculty who are passionate about nurturing student growth in a supportive, research-based environment with emphasis on small group instruction.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Mission and Leadership

• Maintain congruence between GSL's mission and all activities of the Lower School division.
  
• Serve as a visible presence throughout the school, fostering relationships with students, faculty, and families.
  
• Advocate for the Lower School while collaborating with the leadership team to align with the school's broader goals.
  
• Lead a positive, structured learning environment.
  
• Participate in the hiring, development, and retention of faculty, in collaboration with the Head of School.
  
• Communicate with and update the Head of School regularly regarding the division's programs and activities.
  
• Promote a safe, nurturing environment that supports learning and emphasizes both academic excellence and character development, in line with the school's values.
  
• Foster deep connections with families, offering proactive communication and support, while building trust and community.
  
• Ensure seamless transitions for students and families between divisions.
  
• Uphold GSL's mission, vision, strategic plan, and values in all leadership activities and decision-making.
  
  Operational Responsibilities
  
  
• Oversee daily operations of the Lower School division as its educational leader.
  
• Coordinate with the business office to manage Lower School facilities.
  
• Ensure the division meets all legal requirements and maintains best practices, complying with local and state regulations as well as accreditation standards.
  
• Develop and manage the Lower School budget, working closely with the business office to align financial needs with program goals.
  
• Maintain a comprehensive calendar of Lower School events, ensuring effective communication within the school community.
  
  Curriculum and Pedagogy
  
  
• Stay informed on advances in educational practices, leading the division in developing innovative small group instruction and research-based teaching methods.
  
• Lead the division in curriculum development and review, ensuring consistency in programming and alignment with school-wide goals.
  
• Collaborate with faculty to evaluate and enhance academic programs and co-curricular activities.
  
• Champion the school's mission in all educational endeavors, ensuring it informs the academic and social-emotional growth of students.
  
  Faculty Development
  
  
• Observe, mentor, and evaluate faculty to ensure instructional excellence and adherence to the school's mission and policies.
  
• Provide professional development opportunities that align with both individual and institutional growth goals.
  
• Foster a collaborative and respectful environment where faculty feel valued, supported, and inspired to innovate in their teaching.
  
• Support a culture of continuous improvement, setting goals with teachers and providing ongoing feedback.
  
  Student Development
  
  
• Be actively involved in the lives of students, addressing their intellectual, social, and emotional development.
  
• Oversee the grading and reporting processes, ensuring fairness and consistency.
  
• Uphold standards of conduct and promote a culture of respect, responsibility, and inclusiveness.
  
• Collaborate with the academic support team to ensure students receive the necessary support to thrive.
  
• Lead efforts to assess and enhance student success, ensuring that each child receives a holistic education rooted in the school's values.
  
  Admissions and Outreach
  
  
• Work closely with the admissions department to attract and retain mission-appropriate students.
  
• Participate in admissions activities, including student assessments and family interviews as needed, articulating GSL's philosophy and program offerings.
  
• Build positive relationships with prospective families, helping them understand and appreciate the school's approach to education and community.
  
  Additional Responsibilities
  
  
• Serve as a member of the leadership team, representing the Lower School in key strategic discussions.
  
• Collaborate with the Advancement Department on initiatives that support the school's growth and development.
  
• Assist in the planning and implementation of school-wide events, assemblies, and programs.
  
• Attend relevant professional development opportunities to remain current on trends and best practices in independent school leadership.
  
• Serve as an ambassador for GSL at community and school events, fostering positive relationships and engagement across constituencies.
  
  Qualifications
  
  
• Master's degree or higher in education or school administration.
  
• 5-10 years of teaching experience, with 2-5 years of leadership experience, ideally in independent or faith-based schools.
  
• Deep understanding of the developmental and academic needs of elementary students.
  
• Demonstrated success in fostering a collaborative and mission-driven environment.
  
• Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
  
• Sense of humor, love of children, and an understanding of servant leadership.
  
  Physical Requirements
  
  
• Ability to safely and successfully perform the essential job functions consistent with the ADA, FMLA, and other federal, state, and local standards.
  
• Ability to maintain regular, punctual attendance consistent with the ADA, FMLA, and other federal, state, and local standards.
  
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
  
• Must be able to talk, listen, and speak clearly on the telephone.
  
  To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter to jobs@gslschool.org. The latest date to submit materials is October 30, 2024. The starting date for this position is July 8, 2025.
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Keywords: Choose901, Bartlett , Head of Lower School at Grace-St. Luke's School, Other , Memphis, Tennessee