Academic Director

City Tree Christian School Mission

City Tree Christian School (CTCS) serves the children of San Diego as an outreach ministry of First Presbyterian Church (FPC) of San Diego dedicated to academic excellence integrated with the Biblical teachings of Jesus Christ. City Tree Christian School is a wonderful community of teachers, staff, and families working together to educate our children in a loving Christian environment. We are an ethnically and socio-economically diverse school located in downtown San Diego. About 200 students attend our school-age infants through eighth grade. Our school is a member of the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) and accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

SUMMARY OF POSITION

The Academic Director will demonstrate a consistent and enthusiastic commitment to Jesus Christ and support the mission of City Tree Christian School. The Academic Director will be responsible for collaborating with the Head of School to provide teachers with high-quality professional development and curriculum implementation guidance to meet the needs of all students. This is an exciting opportunity for collaborative educators who enjoy working closely with teachers and teaching assistants as well as the Head of School to drive student outcomes.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Collaborate with the Head of School to develop a plan of action for the year, including, but not limited to long-term goal setting, identification of major growth areas and steps for improvement, establishing methods for effective communication, long-term plan for supporting and developing teachers.
• Design and implement a curriculum review process in according with WASC goals and standards and in conjunction with the Head of School and School Board/Curriculum Committee.
• Guide and direct teachers in the development of curriculum and implementation of Student Learner Outcomes (SLOs).
• Lead the school and staff in the choice and focus of special courses such as Christian Education, music, band, Spanish, technology and art.
• Manage assessments such as MAP Testing evaluating their use, effectiveness and interpreting the information provided by reports regarding both individual and overall student growth.
• Provide student academic support guiding teachers and parents through the assessment process with the district, writing goals and implementing accommodations and learning plans, reviewing progress and writing reports as necessary, communicating with parents and staff. Providing academic support to students, as necessary.
• Make enrollment decisions in conjunction with Head of School and Preschool Director.
• Provide counseling for families regarding local high school choices, requirements and enrollment process.
• Plan and deliver professional development to administrators, teachers, paraprofessionals, and parents in accelerating academic achievement.
• Design and implement a teacher observation process that focuses on goals and developing the skills of the teacher.
• Serve as primary instructional coach for teachers and learning specialists
• Lead coaching and support on classroom and school culture
• Contribute to the development of a rigorous curriculum, including a vertical scope and sequence aligned to California standards, through creation of assessments, unit plans, and lesson plans, as needed
• Lead in the utilization of student performance data to customize and improve instruction;
• Provide the Head of School feedback regarding teacher performance and development
• Assist in writing policies and procedures regarding student behavior and academic expectations
• Handle student behavior expectations and address poor student behavior managing student conversations, discipline, and parent communication elevating to the Head of School, as necessary.
• Maintain necessary budgets, records, and files
• Develop, implement and evaluate special programs and projects including class trips, field trips, and special activities.
• Create K-8 class schedules in conjunction with Head of School. Find substitutes and manage schedule changes communicating with staff regarding the changes.
• Support the Head of School in the preparation of WASC reports focusing on sections that address curriculum, teaching and student support.
• Develop a philosophy for technology use in the classroom in conjunction with the Head of School.
• Substitute in classrooms as needed, including modeling instruction for teachers as necessary.
• Other tasks and projects as assigned by the Head of School.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Demonstrates a personal commitment to a deep and abiding faith in Jesus Christ by living in accordance with His teachings.
• Demonstrates strong servant leadership skills with a history of effective team building, mentoring, and building community.
• Demonstrates ability to prioritize competing tasks through delegation and effective time management.
• Able to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, to diverse audiences.
• Applies strong working knowledge of current teaching methodologies and innovative technology.
• Displays passion and commitment about meeting the academic, emotional, and social needs of children.
• Possesses a passion for lifelong learning that serves as a model for the staff and broader community.
• Demonstrates ability to handle difficult situations with a high level of tact, diplomacy, and confidentiality.

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Master's degree in education (or related field) from an accredited university
• Teaching credential
• Administrative credential
• Minimum of five years of experience in teaching and/or leadership position