July 2026 Start

THE OPPORTUNITY
The next Head of School (HOS) at Anna Julia Cooper School (AJC) in Richmond, VA will step into a unique and inspiring leadership role at a pivotal time in the school's growth. With a mission rooted in faith and an educational experience suited to each student, the school offers the opportunity to build on a strong foundation and shape the future for students from limited economic resources. The Head of School, in partnership with an engaged, working Board of Directors, will lead a dedicated team of educators and staff; develop deep relationships with parents, donors and neighbors; increase community partnerships; and serve more students in the East End of Richmond. This is a rare chance to transform lives through education while honoring the legacy of a school deeply committed to dignity, opportunity, and hope.

ANNA JULIA COOPER SCHOOL
A K-8th grade independent school, the mission of Anna Julia Cooper School is to love, educate, and uplift its students and graduates so that they may realize their God-given gifts. It is a tuition-free school, with an unwavering commitment to providing a high-quality, faith-based education for students. Located in one of Richmond's most under-resourced areas, the school offers an extended school year, personalized instruction, and a holistic support system that nurtures the academic, social, and emotional growth of each student. It emphasizes the dignity and potential of every child, fostering a culture of high expectations, mutual respect, and deep care. What truly sets the school apart is its mission-driven approach—grounded in a community of affection —combined with its long-term commitment to walk alongside students and families after their graduation from AJC.

AJC was founded as a middle school in 2009 by a small group of individuals with close connections with several area Episcopal churches. By 2022, AJC had expanded to include elementary school grades. In the Fall of 2026, the K-5 grades will move into a newly built lower school building. Over the next few years, the school will expand to roughly 280 students from its current enrollment of 185. 1 For more information, please see the attached profile and visit AJC's website. 

HOS PRIORITIES

The HOS is responsible for the overall performance of the entire school. Of the many duties of the HOS there are four priorities that stand out: • Love, educate and uplift AJC's students and their families.   • Sustain a community of affection extending to all stakeholders as the school grows. • Support the faculty and staff and ensure their well-being to maintain the highest caliber of educators. • Work with the Board to raise funds each year to support the tuition-free school, sharing ultimate responsibility to ensure successful campaigns.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

In addition to a passion for AJC's mission and culture and the ability to fundraise for a nontraditional school, we understand that each candidate will bring a unique set of skills. The following points provide a profile of the qualifications and experience the Board seeks: Leadership

• Creating and implementing a vision that is supported by the Board and the larger community.
• Providing faculty and staff the opportunity to excel and advance their careers.
• Understanding the dynamics of a school community, especially in an under-resourced area.
Fundraising
• Developing relationships with a variety of current and potential investors.
• Telling stories that inspire giving.
• Building partnerships within the community to support sustainability. School Operations
• Understanding the organizational and educational requirements of a successful school.
• Taking into account the financial implications of operating decisions.

School Community
• Developing a school community and culture that exhibits love and respect.
• Ensuring that volunteers are cared for and appreciated.
• Building a community where alumni are welcomed when they return home.

Board Relations
• Partnering with the Board to ensure  future strength.
• Supporting ongoing Board development.

Personal qualifications include:
• A faith-based orientation that aligns with the school's values.
• Excellent communication skills.
• The ability to listen, collaborate, and make sound decisions.
• The ability to react quickly to a variety of situations.
• An approach that connects with people while maintaining the ability to make difficult decisions when necessary.