Head of Middle School

Employment Status:
Full-Time, 12-Month Employee
FLSA Classification:
Exempt
POSITION DESCRIPTION
The Walker School is seeking an experienced, dedicated, and dynamic individual to be our next Head of Middle School.
The Walker School is a dynamic and caring educational environment where our students are encouraged to foster a sense of independence and responsibility, as well as a love of learning and a willingness to take part in a range of experiences.
Walker is seeking a middle school leader who will play a pivotal role in overseeing the day-to-day operations and the implementation of strategic goals for Walker's Middle School to begin July 1, 2024.
As a member of the Leadership and Academic Teams, the Head of Middle School is committed to Walker's mission and core values and reports directly to the Head of School.
The Head of Middle School is charged with the comprehensive responsibility for all activities involving students and faculty in their respective division.
QUALIFYING CHARACTERISTICS
The ideal candidate is in whole-hearted agreement with the mission, vision, and core values of The Walker School.
They must demonstrate the character qualities of enthusiasm, courtesy, flexibility, integrity, gratitude, kindness, self-control, perseverance, and punctuality.
The candidate will possess the emotional stability, objectivity, and optimism necessary to navigate the ups and downs of middle school students and faculty.
They must appreciate and understand the diversity of the Walker community and communicate proactively with students, parents, faculty, and staff.
The ideal candidate will have the ability to develop and maintain rapport with students, parents, and staff by treating them with dignity, respect, and kindness.
ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES
Serve as the educational leader for the Middle School, responsible for its day-to-day operation through the development and articulation of school goals, department goals, course objectives, materials, methods, and means of assessment.
Work to continually ensure alignment between the school's mission, vision, and values and all activities of the Middle School.
Implement a program and philosophy that achieve the goals set forth in the 2024 Strategic Plan.
Function as the chief articulator of the division's programs, expectations, behavioral guidelines, and other information necessary to ensure that all constituencies are fully informed.
Promote a school climate where optimal learning can take place, which is safe and supportive, and which emphasizes character development.
In collaboration with the Director of Human Resources, oversee the hiring, onboarding, retention, termination, and assignment of faculty and staff.
Supervise, evaluate, and oversee the development of the division's teachers and support staff.
Conduct regular staff meetings with faculty and staff, which will incorporate both routine school matters affecting students and faculty and the stimulating exchange of ideas on issues of educational/philosophical interest and concern.
Establish programs for the orientation of new teachers and in-service training of all teachers.
Ensure that teachers are familiar with and adhere to school policies in all areas.
Serve as a consultant to faculty in matters of classroom management, teaching methods, and school procedures.
Prepare a master school class schedule and assign teachers and students to classes and other obligations.
Oversee curriculum development and implementation along with department chairs.
Create and maintain budgets for the Middle School.
In coordination with department chairs, oversee textbook and teaching material selection and recommend library books, materials, and other learning media additions.
Working with the Assistant Head of Middle School, oversee the coordination of the co-curricular and extracurricular activity programs of the Middle School; assist in the planning and presentation of school assemblies and programs; and assist in maintaining a comprehensive calendar of school events.
Working with the Assistant Head of Middle School, 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 communicate effectively with families regarding disciplinary matters.
Attend middle school athletic and extracurricular events.
Collaborate with the Athletic Director to see that all sports activities are administered in accordance with school philosophy and expectations.
Oversee and direct the activities of the department chairs, the sponsors of various student organizations and activities, and faculty committees.
Serve on the Senior Administrative Team, the Admission Committee, and the Academic Technology Council.
Support the admission and re-enrollment activities for the middle school and coordinate activities to introduce fifth-grade families and students to the middle school.
Perform other duties as assigned by the Head of School.
CORE QUALIFICATIONS
Master's degree in subject matter and/or educational administration.
Substantial teaching and administrative experience, preferably in an independent school environment.
Excellent verbal, listening, and written communication skills.
Demonstrated leadership, highlighted by the ability to problem solve, build consensus, and work in collaborative partnerships across all constituent groups.
PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES
High emotional intelligence and exceptional interpersonal skills
Cultural competence and respect for the infinite worth and dignity of all individuals
Strong organization and careful attention to detail
Entrepreneurial spirit and innovative approach to problem-solving
Excellent judgment and decision-making skills
Flexibility and capacity to handle conflict with empathy and grace
SCHOOL DESCRIPTION
The Walker School is a leader among independent schools in the metro Atlanta area and has long been recognized for its strong academic program, close relationships between students and faculty, and abundant opportunities for students to engage in meaningful experiences both in and out of the classroom.
Walker enrolls students from Pre-K3 through Grade 12 and is open to all faiths.
Our commitment to diversity provides a welcoming and safe atmosphere for students to discover who they are and to successfully navigate an ever-changing world.
The Walker School is proud to provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, age, or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law.
The best candidates will be able to demonstrate a proven commitment to working in diverse, multicultural settings.
SALARY and BENEFITS
The Walker School's salary and benefits are competitive and include medical, vision, and dental insurance, tuition remission, and a retirement plan through TIAA-CREF.
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