2024-2025 Associate Director of Academics

Location

Douglasville, GA | United States

Job description

ZEST Preparatory Academy Charter School

Associate Director of Academics (Elementary)

ABOUT US

ZEST Preparatory Academy Charter School is a K-5 charter school in Douglasville, GA (Metro Atlanta area). Our mission is to provide an academically rigorous, supportive, and joyful learning environment to develop the leader inside every student for lifelong educational achievement and impactful community service.

We will accomplish our mission through an academically rigorous environment where students will master the core subjects, develop advanced academic skills, hone their leadership skills in and out of school, and demonstrate community service. Our staff hold an unwavering belief that all students deserve an excellent education and it’s our collective responsibility to prepare students to take a seat at the table, so they can emerge as the next generation of leaders. We also believe that it’s never too early to prepare students for college and career, so they have the opportunity to live choice filled lives.

OUR APPROACH

Our college preparatory model includes three key components beginning with an intentional focus on language and literacy development to increase critical thinking and reading proficiencies for all students. Second, a discovery-based learning approach where teachers encourage our students to take ownership of their learning by discovering new ideas and solutions to real world challenges. The third component, leadership, teaches essential habits of leadership so students can apply real world skills to their overall growth and development. ZEST Prep intentionally teaches leadership skills beginning in kindergarten.

JOB TITLE: Associate Director of Academics

POSITION SUMMARY

This role provides the opportunity to build something new and set the foundation for success. An integral part of our success will be the daily implementation of highly effective teaching and learning that allows students to thrive academically and socially.

The primary role of the Associate Director of Academics is to co-lead ZEST Preparatory Academy’s academic and culture plan. This person supports the day-to-day school instructional programming and culture for ZEST Preparatory Academy Charter School. The position works closely with the Executive Director to ensure alignment with the school’s goals, mission, and vision.

JOB EXPECTATIONS

The Associate Director of Academics co-leads ZEST Preparatory Academy’s academic and culture plan.

Duties include, but are not limited to:

Academic Leadership

• Co-lead the implementation of the school’s instructional vision inclusive of curriculum development, instructional practices, professional development, assessment, and evaluations
• Deep understanding of the Georgia Standards of Excellence
• Demonstrated knowledge of the Science of Reading, language and literacy development and Orton-Gillingham Approach
• Working knowledge of the Georgia State Charter Schools Commission’s Comprehensive Performance Framework specifically with regard to student achievement and growth
• Actively participates in professional development and growth opportunities

Curriculum & Instruction

• Knowledge of various instructional approaches and curriculum including 95% Group, EL Education, Eureka Math
• Actively collaborate with the Director of Student Support and Services ensure all students needs are met
• Leads instructional staff members through goal setting, coaching, feedback, and evaluation to continuously improve their craft
• Develops and facilitate professional development opportunities for staff members that align to yearly school goals and priorities
• Support in the collection, analysis, and evaluation of school performance data to make holistic and individual recommendations for improving instructional practices
• Conduct regular classroom observations

Data & Assessments

• Promote a data-driven culture within the school community
• Regularly monitor & analyze student data to ensure positive student growth outcomes
• Serve as the School-based Assessment Coordinator
• Knowledge of NWEA MAP, Georgia Milestones Assessments, BEACON, GKIDS, & Literacy-based universal screeners 

School Culture Leadership

• Promote a positive, joyful, and academically rigorous school culture
• Guide and promote staff and student leadership development through deliberate practices
• Plan and lead school-wide events and celebrations
• Manage school-wide behavior systems in partnership with the school team

  Community Leadership

• Maintains the integrity and success of ZEST Preparatory Academy
• Supports a robust parent and community involvement plan
• Actively participates in the West Georgia community
• Develops community partners with local, state, and national organizations
• Support recruitment of new students to ensure the school meets all enrollment goals
• Work closely with all external school partners and stakeholders

School Operations and Compliance

• Collaborate with the Director of Operations in school operations and data collections

• Participates in school-based staff hiring

• Supports the Executive Leadership Team in reporting including, but not limited to:
• Student record, attendance reporting, and communication to parents
• Course and class schedules
• Data Management in the SIS (Infinite Campus)
• Reports to SCSC, GaDOE, Board of Directors, and other oversight entities

Perform other duties as assigned

Ancillary Duties : Include, but are not limited to:

• Demonstrate positive support for the Board, administrative team, school staff, and the community
• Participate on School Leadership Team
• Attend after school activities
• Assist with student arrival and dismissal

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

Education:

• A Master’s degree in education or a related field from an accredited college or university; advanced degree preferred
• Georgia Leadership Educator Certificate (Preferred)

Experience

• Five years of experience in school or education leadership required
• Ten plus years of broad education and professional experience
• Experience in leadership in a Local Education Agency.
• Charter school experience desirable

Requirements

• Commitment to excellence balanced with human-centered leadership
• Professional demeanor, strong work ethic
• Meticulous attention to detail, precision, and accuracy
• Strong communication skills
• Proven ability to work collaboratively with a diverse group of people in a multi-generational workplace
• Current authorization to work in the United States
• Clear Criminal Background Check

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

• Competitive salary that is commensurate with experience.
• Competitive benefits package including medical, dental insurance, vision insurance, and life insurance.
• Contributions to the Teacher Retirement System (TRS) in accordance with Georgia state law, as well as an additional, optional 403(b) retirement account.

COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY

ZEST Preparatory Academy is actively seeking to build a diverse and experienced team of leaders. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, handicap, age, religion, sexual orientation, or national or ethnic origin. We are an equal opportunity employer.

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