Career Center

The Assistant Director for Upper School will work closely with the Division Director to support, develop, and evolve the instruction, collaboration and well-being of the divisional teaching teams and individual teachers. In addition to a strong collaborative approach with teacher support, the Assistant Director will work alongside the Division Director to implement student programs, activities and policies that align with our strategic plan, school mission/vision, and core values.  In partnership with the Teaching & Learning and Wellness & Belonging team, the Assistant Director will assist with planning for professional development and growth, consistent feedback on policy and procedures, and effectively provide resources and strategies for best pedagogical practices.  This is a 12 month position and reports to the Upper School Director.

The ideal candidate will be an individual with significant experience working in school environments, specifically with adolescents in moments of success and achievement, as well as in moments of struggle or challenge. In addition to being compassionate and supportive, candidates should demonstrate exceptional organizational, communication, and decision-making skills, as well as the ability to prioritize tasks and uphold the school’s policy, mission, and core values consistently. 

Responsibilities and Relationships

• Serve as member of division leadership team
• Work with the division leadership team to provide feedback on and support with academic and social policies (i.e., Student/Parent Handbook) that may affect student learning, as well as protocols and practices that serve to support student development, learning, and wellbeing
• Serve as liaison between Upper School and Johnson Academic Center faculty
• Meet regularly with Teaching and Learning and Wellness and Belonging teams to determine how to best support the needs of students and teacher teams
• Assist with new teacher orientation and mentoring 
• Communicate effectively with all members of the FCDS community.  Great emphasis is placed on comprehensive communication between the Upper School Assistant Director and students, faculty, and parents. Proper and timely communication is essential in this position.
• Promote and model high standards of integrity and professionalism
• Serve as an advisor and help with supporting and coordinating the Upper School advisory program 
• Teach one course in the Upper School
• Maintain a consistent presence among students throughout the school day, and attend athletic events, arts performances, and other student activities on a regular basis 
• Strategize, lead and support the long and short range plans and goals of the school
• Navigate difficult conversations with grace and empathy
• Possess organizational skills to manage multiple priorities, tasks, and deadlines

Requirements:

• Minimum bachelor's degree in education or related field, masters degree preferred
• Teaching experience, independent school experience is a plus

Must possess:

• A strong commitment to develop active listening skills.
• Developed abilities to analyze, problem solve, and an observable commitment to demonstrating curiosity, compassion, and learning in interpersonal professional relationships. 
• Developed abilities to establish effective rapport with a diverse student body with varying personalities.
• Developed abilities to effectively manage time and execute projects in a timely manner, including opportunities to work inclusively in a team setting. 
• Willingness to enforce institutional policies
• Ability to keep information confidential

Essential Functions:

• Regularly required to walk, including across uneven ground, talk, hear, reach with hands and arms, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 15 pounds
• Must be able to operate a computer and have basic knowledge of Google Workspace
• Must be able to access and navigate all areas of the school and other facilities as needed
• Must be able to utilize oral and written communication skills effectively