Francis W. Parker School is seeking an experienced and progressive Head of Lower School to start July 1, 2010. The Head of the Lower School reports directly to the Principal and is ultimately responsible for all activities involving students and teachers in the Lower School division which encompasses Grades JK-3rd. The Head of the Lower School maintains congruency between the School’s mission and all activities involving the Lower School.
Essential Functions:
Act as the educational leader of the Lower School, responsible for its day-to-day operation.
Direct the activities of faculty and staff in their duties and teaching.
Act as the chief articulator of Lower School programs, philosophy, expectations, behavioral guidelines, and other information necessary to ensure that all constituencies are fully informed.
Observe, supervise, and help evaluate faculty in the development and implementation of curriculum; supervise the teaching process, and review and evaluate academic programs.
Oversee the curriculum of various departments as it pertains to the Lower School to ensure that the School mission is articulated through departmental goals, course objectives, materials, methods and means of assessment.
Provide an orderly, controlled environment in which learning can take place and reflects a school climate that is supportive and maintains high morale.
Be aware of the educational, physical, social and psychological needs of the members of the Lower School; develop plans for meeting those needs.
Oversee and direct the activities of the department chairs, the sponsors of various student activities and organizations, and faculty committees.
Ensure compliance with legal requirements of government regulations and agencies; maintain the educational standards established by the State of Illinois and those agencies that examine and accredit the School.
Make recommendations to the Principal about the retention, hiring and assignment of faculty.
Strive for unity, harmony and cooperation through tact, helpfulness, respect, and recognition of individual differences and the special abilities and strengths of each teacher.
Conduct regular meetings with faculty which will deal both with routine school matters and also the stimulating exchange of ideas on issues of educational/philosophical interest and concern.
Oversee the coordination of any co-curricular activity programs of the Lower School; assist in the planning and presentation of school assemblies and programs; assist in maintaining a comprehensive calendar of school events; keep the entire school community informed of various school programs and activities.
Provide for the academic guidance of Lower School students; maintain complete academic records on all students; oversee the grading and reporting of standards and methods used by teachers in measuring student achievement.
Establish guidelines for proper student conduct and dress; maintain student discipline consistent with school policies; monitor students’ adherence to established school rules; maintain accurate records of student attendance and citizenship.
Be a visible presence in all areas of the School; work toward a resolution of all problems-both routine and unique-as they arise; keep the Principal informed of the general programs, activities, and problems of the School.
Prepare a master class schedule for the Lower School and assign teachers and students to classes and other obligations.
Serve as a consultant to teachers in matters of classroom management, teaching methods, and general school procedures.
Assist in the admission process for testing, interviewing, and evaluating of applicants for enrollment.
Oversee the budget and expenditures for the Lower School.
Consult with parent grade chairs and volunteers in the Lower School regarding their work.
Communicate Lower School issues to the Board of Trustees of the School.
Provide executive leadership and serve as a member of the School’s Administrative team.
Perform other duties as assigned by the Principal.
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