School Director

Arts & College Preparatory Academy (ACPA) School Director

The Arts & College Preparatory Academy (ACPA) is an arts focused, independent community school on the east side of Columbus that serves a diverse population of students in grades 7 through 12 from more than 25 different districts in central Ohio. We are committed to culturally relevant teaching and intellectual discourse, and providing students with a high-quality, project-based education in an inclusive and innovative environment. Our mission is to have a climate and culture that is based on a trailblazing arts and college prep curriculum in an environment that is safe, inclusive, and progressive. For more than 20 years, ACPA has consistently been one of the highest performing charter schools in Ohio and we seek to continue that legacy.

All ACPA Staff are expected to reflect and participate in a progressive school culture of creativity, safety, inclusion, acceptance, and anti-bullying, as well model and uphold the school values of honesty, communication, problem-solving, kindness, respect for diversity, participation and awareness in all interactions with school stakeholders – including students, staff, caregivers, families, and community partners.

The School Director is the highest leadership position at ACPA. Under the direction of the Board of Education, the School Director is responsible for the overall management, strategic direction and school mission, vision and values alignment. The School Director will hold the designation of “Superintendent” at the state level.

Position Summary: We are seeking a visionary School Director to lead our school’s operations, curriculum development, and strategic direction. The ideal candidate will have a deep passion for education, a commitment to the arts, and a proven track record of leadership in secondary education. This individual will play a pivotal role in shaping the school’s culture, fostering academic excellence, and ensuring that all students achieve their fullest potential.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leadership and Vision:
• Implement a strategic vision for the school that aligns with its mission, vision, and values.
• Foster a culture of innovation, excellence, and inclusivity among staff and students.
• ACPA’s School Director is expected to inspire, lead, guide, and direct every member of the administrative, instructional, and support services staff.
• Academic Oversight:
• Oversee curriculum development, ensuring alignment with state standards and the integration of arts and college-preparatory components.
• Promote culturally relevant and evidence-based teaching practices to improve student outcomes.
• Staff Development:
• Recruit, hire, and retain highly qualified educators and staff.
• Provide professional development opportunities to enhance teaching and leadership skills.
• Model and foster creative and collaborative teams and environment focused on the well-being of the ACPA community.
• Convene regular check-in meetings and conduct annual evaluations for principals and administrative staff
• Operations Management:
• Collaborate with the Treasurer and Operations Director to manage the school’s budget, resources, and facilities to support academic programs and operational efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with state and federal regulations, as well as charter sponsor policies.
• Community Engagement:
• Build strong relationships with students, parents, staff, and community stakeholders.
• Act as the primary spokesperson for the school, advocating for its mission and fostering partnerships.

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Education, Educational Leadership, or a related field
• Valid Ohio Superintendent’s License and/or Principals License (administrative assistance will be available for transferring credentials if the chosen candidate is from outside Ohio).
• Three to five years of experience in Educational Leadership, preferably in a secondary or charter school setting.
• Experience as a teacher, and school or district level administrator
• Demonstrated expertise in curriculum development, teacher evaluation, establishing and maintaining community partnerships, and school operations.
• Strong commitment to integrating the arts into education and promoting college readiness.
• Exceptional communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

Preferred Skills and Attributes:

• Experience working in a culturally diverse educational environment.
• Familiarity with arts education and college-preparatory programs.
• Proven ability to lead change and drive innovation.
• Experience fostering collaborative and successful team culture

Compensation: This position offers a competitive salary and benefits package, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Join us in cultivating creative, confident, and compassionate learners through a rigorous academic curriculum rooted in the arts and grounded in social justice.