Description

The Director of Teaching and Learning is responsible for leading and supporting the academic and instructional growth of teachers and students at Christian Life Schools in the Upper School (MS and HS Levels). This position focuses on the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of instructional strategies, curriculum, and professional development to ensure that teaching and learning align with the school’s mission and best practices in education. Additionally, this role encompasses the academic leadership responsibilities typically associated with a traditional building principal, with a strong emphasis on supporting teachers in their instructional effectiveness and professional growth as well as data collection and analysis at the Upper School levels.

Requirements

Roles and Responsibilities-The Director will Oversee and Lead in the following Areas:

Instructional Leadership

Provide guidance and support to teachers in implementing research-based instructional practices, including the science of reading and direct instruction.

Ensure instructional strategies align with the school’s Christian worldview and academic philosophy.

Model effective teaching practices and support classroom instruction through coaching and mentoring.

Oversee the academic operations of the high school, ensuring that faculty have the necessary resources and support to foster student success.

Curriculum Development & Alignment

      Oversee the development, evaluation, and alignment of curriculum to meet academic standards and faith-based objectives.

      Facilitate the adoption of effective instructional materials and resources.

      Ensure curriculum and instruction promote critical thinking, problem-solving, and lifelong learning skills.

      Support teachers in developing engaging and rigorous coursework that meets high school graduation requirements and college readiness standards.

      Oversee creation and upkeep of Curriculum Maps.

Professional Development

      Design, identify, and/or lead ongoing teacher training in best instructional practices, assessment, and differentiated instruction.

      Provide teachers with resources and support to enhance their professional growth.

      Organize workshops, coaching sessions, and collaborative learning communities.

      Mentor and evaluate teachers to promote instructional excellence and professional development.

      Lead Late Start and In-Service Trainings in collaboration with Elementary Principal and Head of School.

Student Academic Support

      Work closely with teachers to assess student learning needs and implement intervention strategies as necessary.

      Collaborate with the student support team to enhance learning opportunities for diverse learners.

      Use data-driven approaches to monitor student progress and improve instructional effectiveness.

      Oversee academic policies, scheduling, and student academic affairs in the upper school.

      Oversee student resource and support services in upper school including Title 1 tutors.

      Manage academic honesty and AI policies.

Assessment and Data Analysis

      Oversee the administration and analysis of student assessments to inform instruction and curriculum decisions including MAP, PSAT, SAT.

      Train faculty in the effective use of assessment data to improve student outcomes.

      Ensure alignment between assessments, instructional goals, and student achievement.

      Use data to guide teacher support, curriculum adjustments, and student interventions.

      Generate assessment and data reports for the Head of School.

Faith Integration

      Ensure that biblical principles and a Christian worldview are integrated into all aspects of teaching and learning.

      Support teachers in weaving faith into their instructional practices.

      Encourage a culture of Christ-centered academic excellence among faculty and students.

      Collaborate with Director of Student and Spiritual Life.

Upper School Academic Leadership

      Serve as the primary academic leader for the upper school, ensuring that academic policies and practices support student success and faculty effectiveness.

      Support upper school teachers in lesson planning, instructional delivery, and classroom management.

      Foster a positive school culture that emphasizes academic excellence, character development, and faith-based learning in collaboration with the Director of Student and Spiritual Life.

      Partner with parents, counselors, and other school leaders to ensure student academic and personal growth.

      Handle student discipline related to academics, learning, and academic integrity.

      Promote the tenants of Capturing Kids Hearts and the EXCEL Model.

Facility and Instructional Environment Leadership

      Serve as the primary catalyst for the look and feel of classrooms and academic spaces.

      Set expectations and standards for classroom and academic hallways in terms of look and feel to support learning and culture.

      Manage flow of work orders related to daily operations of academic settings including lights, temperature, cleanliness, and repairs.

Qualifications & Skills:
      A deep, personal faith in Jesus Christ and a strong commitment to Christian education.

      Bachelor's degree required; Master’s degree in education, or leadership preferred.

      Administrator licensure or be willing to obtain said credentials; including ACSI certification.

      Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.

      A heart for relational ministry and building connections with students in meaningful ways.

      A collaborative and team-oriented mindset, able to work well with faculty, parents, and administration.

Personal Qualifications

      Sign and live by the School’s Lifestyle Statement as a condition for employment and continued employment (attached) in this ministry.

      Abide by and support the Staff Handbook and Student Handbook.

      Have the spiritual maturity, academic ability, and personal leadership qualities to disciple students.

      Have a passion for serving young people and families through the high calling of Christian education.

      Be a “Champion for City First Church”. 

      Exhibit a relational style of management that affords the ability to work gracefully with students, parents, and coaches. 

      Be an enthusiastic team-member, encouraging, self-starter with a positive energy level.

Professional Qualifications

      Familiarity or willingness to learn technology and digital platforms including FACTS, Google Suite for Education, Social Media, Zoom, and Microsoft Office Products.

      Strong written, verbal communication skills, as well as public speaking skills.

      Strong attention to detail and organization skills.

      Additional required certifications include CPR, AED and First Aid. 

      Master’s degree in Education, Curriculum & Instruction, Educational Leadership, or a related field.

      Minimum of 5 years of teaching experience, preferably in a Christian school setting.

      Experience in instructional coaching, curriculum development, and teacher professional development.

      Strong understanding of the science of reading, direct instruction, and research-based teaching methodologies.

Physical and Environmental Demands

      Be able to safely drive school vehicles, navigate off-site venues, and ministry partner locations as needed.

      Be able to regularly lift up to 25 lbs and occasionally lift or move 45 lbs.

      Be able to stand, walk, and sit for long periods of time.

Additional Notes

Assist and perform other tasks that may be required from time-to-time to promote the school internally or within the community.

      Attend Open Houses and School Promotional Events (sometimes in evening and weekend)

      Supervise activities and extracurriculars.

Other responsibilities assigned by the Head of School as deemed appropriate for the position and mission of Christian Life.