Chief Academic Officer

Position Description: Chief Academic Officer

Supervisor:    Executive Director, The Family Place Public Charter School 

Category:       Exempt/1.0 FTE with benefits

Salary:          Competitive, 60 -75K; Experience Dependent

Position Summary:

The Family Place Public Charter School (TFPPCS) is seeking an organizational leader with significant people management experience and proven results in leading and developing high performing adult education programs. The Chief Academic Officer (CAO) is responsible for planning and improving high academic excellence at The Family Place Public Charter School. TFPPCS is the newest adult public charter school in the District of Columbia and the Chief Academic Officer will play a critical role in shaping the school and implementing its vision.

Position Description

The CAO has primary authority and accountability for the academic performance of TFPPCS, the supervision of curriculum and instruction, as well as supervision of academic staff. Our ideal candidate is one who is committed to the success of all students and whose experience, knowledge, and drive will set the tone for a supportive school climate that challenges and motivates our diverse stakeholders. The CAO must have a passion for fulfilling TFPPCS’s mission to provide adult learners an alternative path to become proficient in English in a safe and nurturing environment.

To be successful in the role of Chief Academic Officer candidates must demonstrate the following:
• Commitment to TFPPCS’s mission, vision and attainment of academic and programmatic goals.
• Passion for improving educational opportunities for adult learners and for building a strong, mission-driven organization.
• Vision for success that includes leading and developing a team of dedicated faculty and staff members.
• Strong sense of self, and demonstrate excellent written and verbal communication, interpersonal, and management skills.
• Strong background in English as a Second Language and adult education.

Instructional leadership and coaching:

The Chief Academic Officer will, among other duties, teach a small ESL cohort and conduct home visits. The CAO will coach and inspire teachers and staff as we fulfill our mission; and help TFPPCS lead nationally in the two generational approach to education. Directly supervise 3-5 adult educators and oversee the CDA instructional consultant. Ensure that all staff members are aware of and in compliance with TFPPCS Personnel Policy and Procedures.

Program Management:

·         Adult ESL-- three levels of instruction: Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced ESL classes. Ensure that recruitment, attendance, retention, and CASAS assessment targets are being met every week. Ensure ESL curriculum is updated every year to reflect current standards and student needs. Facilitate the integration of digital literacy into the curriculum.

·         Foundation of Literacy-- allows learners with few years of formal schooling to study in their native Spanish.

·         Child Development Associate Certification and Workforce Development-- Supervise contracted CDA instructor and program; expand and develop other workforce pathways including restaurant and service sector training.

·         Family Literacy & Family Wellness-- Coordinate early childhood curriculum and case manager.

Operational Management

·         Staff Recruitment:  Establish and document job descriptions for adult educators and staff positions authorized by TFPPCS. Recruit, interview, and check references of candidates for unfilled staff positions; and recommend selection of candidates for approval by the Executive Director.

·         Coordination of Intern, Volunteer, and partner organization.

·         Staff Training and Development.

·         Data Management and Assessment:  Provide written reports/summaries of program progress to existing/potential funders, the Board of Directors, and work with the Chief Compliance Officer to ensure accurate data collection and entry.

Qualifications and Skills Required

•      Master’s degree or higher in TESOL, Adult Education, or related field.

•      Minimum 3 years of experience supervising teachers or managing programs related to Adult Education or ESL. Previous experience as an Adult ESL teacher highly preferred.

•      Must be Bilingual (English-Spanish); and have excellent oral and written communication skills

•      Experience working with a non-profit Board of Directors.

•      Experience managing programs in an educational nonprofit or charter environment.

•      Experience with NRS-approved ESL testing (CASAS E-testing and BEST series).

•      Experience working with low-income adults and children in urban settings. 

•      Strong leadership capability and a demonstrated ability to mentor and supervise others.

•      Demonstrated success in recruiting, selecting, leading, motivating and coaching a team of teachers and staff

•       Experience implementing school budgets and innovative strategies for maximizing school resources.