Position Summary
The Head of School serves as the chief executive and spiritual leader of Ascension Episcopal School. This individual is responsible for the overall vision, leadership, and daily operations of the school, ensuring that all aspects of school life align with AES’s mission and Episcopal identity. The Head of School leads with strategic foresight nurturing a community where students, faculty, and families flourish.
Key Responsibilities
Mission-Driven Leadership:
- Champion the school’s mission, Episcopal values, and inquiry-based philosophy across all areas of school life.
- Act as the spiritual and educational leader of the school, supporting the development of the whole child—academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually.
- Lead efforts to maintain a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for students of all backgrounds.
Academic & Program Leadership:
- Oversee curriculum and instructional practices that reflect best practices in early childhood and elementary education.
- Promote inquiry-based and student-centered teaching methods that encourage curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking.
- Support continuous professional growth for faculty and staff, including mentoring and evaluation.
Community & Episcopal Identity
- Foster a strong sense of community among students, faculty, families, and parish partners.
- Collaborate with the parish rector and local Episcopal leadership to maintain meaningful worship, chapel services, and spiritual formation.
- Ensure that the values of love, justice, respect, and service are woven into daily life at school.
Administration & Operations
- Lead and manage day-to-day operations of the school including admissions, scheduling, discipline, and campus safety.
- Hire, supervise, and evaluate faculty and staff with attention to mission alignment and excellence.
- Work closely with division coordinators and administrative team members to ensure smooth and effective operations.
- Maintain childcare licensing through the State of Texas and accreditation status with SAES.
Finance & Advancement
- Partner with the Board of Trustees in strategic planning, budgeting, and fiscal oversight.
- Support the development office in fundraising, donor cultivation, and enrollment management efforts.
- Communicate transparently with the community about the school’s goals, initiatives, and outcomes.
Board Relations
- Serve as the primary liaison between the Board of Trustees and the school’s day-to-day operations.
- Attend board meetings, prepare reports, and advise on policy, planning, and governance issues.
- Collaborate with the Board on long-term visioning, strategic priorities, and mission sustainability.
- Serve as a liaison between the Church Vestry and the school. Attend monthly Vestry meetings.
Qualifications & Characteristics
Required
- Bachelor’s degree in education or related field
- Master’s degree in education, school leadership, or a related field (strongly preferred)
- Certified Childcare Director
- Minimum 5 years of leadership experience in an educational setting, preferably in early childhood or primary education
- Demonstrated experience in curriculum leadership and faculty development
- A clear understanding of child development and whole-child pedagogy
- Ability to lead with empathy, integrity, and strategic vision
Preferred
- Experience in Episcopal or faith-based education
- Familiarity with inquiry-based or progressive education models
- Proven skills in fundraising, admissions, or financial oversight
- Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in education
Personal Attributes
- Warm, approachable, and highly relational
- Spiritually grounded and mission-aligned
- A thoughtful listener and clear communicator
- Confident decision-maker and collaborative leader
- Passionate advocate for young children and early learning
Compensation and Benefits
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience
- Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plan, and tuition remission
- Professional development opportunities and Episcopal school leadership training
How to Apply
- Cover letter addressing your alignment with the mission and values of Ascension Episcopal School
- Résumé or curriculum vitae
- Statement of educational philosophy (1–2 pages)
- List of three professional references
Ascension Episcopal School is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and seek candidates who reflect and will contribute to our inclusive school community.
