Assistant Head of Lower School

Company: National Association of Independent Schools
Location: New York
Posted on: March 17, 2025

Job Description:

The Packer Collegiate Institute seeks a dynamic and inspiring Assistant Head of Lower School for the 2025/26 school year. Located in Brooklyn, NY, Packer is a vibrant PK-12 Grade independent school. The successful candidate would join a highly collaborative learning environment that emphasizes academic excellence, creativity, and student well-being.Anticipated start date: August 2025Position Summary:The Assistant Head of Lower School serves as a key member of the Preschool & Lower School Leadership Team. Working closely with the Head of Preschool & Lower School (PS/LS) and the ELC Director, the Assistant Head of Lower School supports the academic, social, and emotional development of students, 1st-4th Grade. This role involves collaboration with the leadership team, as well as faculty, staff, and parents/caregivers to foster a dynamic and inclusive learning environment that aligns with the school's mission and values. The Assistant Head provides leadership in curriculum development, faculty support and mentorship, student programming, and day-to-day operations of the Lower School. This position offers a unique opportunity to have a meaningful impact on the growth and development of students, teachers, and the broader school community.Key Responsibilities:Academic Leadership:

• Collaborate with the Head of PS/LS to develop, implement, and assess curriculum and instructional practices
• Support faculty to implement rich and authentic learning opportunities, develop and hone effective teaching strategies, and differentiate instruction to meet student needs
• Monitor student assessment and progress, coordinate with teachers, and support faculty to develop intervention plans when necessaryFaculty Support and Development:
  • Co-develop and co-lead the Associate Teacher Program (including hiring Associate Teachers) in partnership with the ELC Director, and Head of PS/LS
  • Mentor and support Associate Teachers in the Lower School
  • Plan and deliver professional development opportunities aligned with the school's goals and initiatives
  • Foster a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement among the teaching facultyStudent Support and Programming:
    • Oversee the development and implementation of programs that promote student well-being, character education, and social-emotional learning (including Student Council and Affinity Spaces)
    • Address student behavioral concerns and collaborate with faculty, specialist, and families to resolve issues
    • Serve as a visible and approachable presence for students, providing guidance and support as neededCommunity Engagement:
      • Promote a welcoming and inclusive school culture that values diverse perspectives
      • Communicate effectively with families about school initiatives, policies, and programs
      • Participate in school-wide events, initiatives, and committees to contribute to the life of the PS/LS Division and the broader Packer communityAdministrative Support:
        • Coordinate visitors, special events, assemblies, and other Preschool & Lower School activities
        • Partner with the Divisional Substitute Coordinator to hire and train substitute teachers and ensure coverage of classrooms in teacher absence
        • Develop duty rosters and ensure supervision during early morning drop-off and recess
        • Serve as acting Lower School Head in the Division Head's absenceQualifications:Education & Experience:
          • Master's degree in education
          • Significant teaching experience at the elementary level, with a strong understanding of child development and research-informed best practices in education
          • Proven leadership experience in an academic setting
          • A record of successfully advancing initiatives in support of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belongingSkills & Attributes:
            • Strong ability to serve as an effective member of a collaborative leadership team. Proven capacity to lead initiatives, think creatively, and problem-solve collectively and toward shared goals
            • Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills, and comfort with public speaking
            • Demonstrated ability to connect meaningfully with young children and to engage collaboratively with all members of the school community, including students, faculty, staff, and families
            • Commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable learning environment
            • Flexibility, resilience, and capacity to toggle between institutional, divisional, and programmatic thinking
              • Excellent anticipatory judgment and situational discernmentCommitment to DiversityPacker's comprehensive commitment to diversity and equity requires all faculty members to actively and thoughtfully engage in work around identity, anti-racism, and inclusion. We actively encourage applications from candidates with broad and diverse backgrounds and from individuals of all races, nationalities, and beliefs.Compensation and Benefits:The Packer Collegiate Institute offers a competitive salary and benefits package, commensurate with experience, including professional development opportunities, health insurance, and retirement contributions.Click to apply.
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Keywords: National Association of Independent Schools, New York , Assistant Head of Lower School, Other , New York, New York