The IDEAL School of Manhattan is an inclusion school dedicated to creating a diverse community that affirms and accepts the full identities of all people, while inspiring academic excellence, creative leadership, and a desire to build a more just and equitable world.
Position Description
The Lower School Head is responsible for overseeing the academic, social, and emotional development of students in grades K-5, ensuring a safe and nurturing learning environment. This role requires hands-on experience with students both with and without disabilities and a passion for inclusion and all aspects of diversity. The position also involves leadership, collaboration, and administration to support the overall educational experience for students, faculty, and families. The ideal candidate will possess the commitment and communication skills necessary to support the school in expanding a remarkable Lower School community. They will also have a track record of being a collaborative, hands-on leader who is directly engaged with all members of the Lower School community.
Responsibilities
The Lower School Head's responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Leadership & Vision
Articulate a clear educational vision for the Lower School, aligning with the broader mission of the school.
Foster a positive school culture focused on student growth, inclusivity, and innovation.
Curriculum & Instruction
Oversee the development, implementation, and evaluation of the curriculum, ensuring that teaching practices meet the needs of all learners.
Lead efforts in educational best practices, differentiated instruction, and integration of technology.
Faculty Supervision & Development
Lead, mentor, and evaluate Lower School faculty, fostering professional growth and collaboration.
Organize professional development opportunities, coaching, and peer collaboration.
Student Support & Development
Ensure that each student receives appropriate academic, social, and emotional support.
Collaborate with teachers, parents, and support staff to address student needs, including behavioral interventions and learning accommodations.
Parent & Community Engagement
Maintain strong communication with parents and guardians, providing regular updates on student progress and school initiatives.
Engage with the broader school community to build strong partnerships.
Administrative Duties
Manage the day-to-day operations of the Lower School, including scheduling, budgeting, record-keeping, and staffing.
Ensure compliance with school policies and relevant regulations.
Collaboration with Leadership
Work closely with other division heads, the Head of School, and the administrative team to promote cross-divisional initiatives, strategic planning, and school-wide consistency.
Position Requirements
Master of Education with a Special or General Education designation, and hands-on experience in both special and general education.
Experience in and/or passion for inclusive education and diversity within a community.
At least three years of experience in a school leadership capacity.
Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, as well as excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Experience with curriculum development and differentiated instruction.
Experience working with students with various disabilities.
Salary and Benefits
Salary Range: $110,000 - $140,000 (This represents the expected salary range for this position. Salary will be determined based on education, experience, and other job-related factors.)
Benefits Include:
Paid time off
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
Flexible spending program
Health reimbursement account
Commuter benefits program
Income protection via short and long-term disability benefits
Paid family leave
Employer-provided lunch options
Professional development opportunities
403(b) plan with employer contribution (waiting period applies)
How to Apply
Interested candidates should send their resume and cover letter to Educator's Ally at leadershipsearch@educatorsally.com with "IDEAL Lower School Head" in the subject line. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The IDEAL School of Manhattan is committed to the principles of equal employment
opportunities for all qualified employees and job applicants and to making all employment
decisions without unlawful discrimination as to race, color, creed, religion, sex, national
origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, citizenship or immigration status, marital status,
familial status, actual or perceived status as a victim of domestic violence, caregiver status,
gender identity or expression, military status, veteran status, genetic predisposition or carrier
status, or any other status or condition protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
This policy of Equal Employment Opportunity applies to all policies and procedures relating to
recruitment, hiring, compensation, benefits, training and development, promotion, demotion,
discipline, termination, and all other terms and conditions of employment.
About Educator's Ally
Educator's Ally provides senior leadership retained search services to independent schools throughout the U.S. With over 45 years of experience working in support of independent K-12 school hiring, EA runs retained searches with the same personalized approach that has long distinguished our work in the contingency space, resulting in fluid and comprehensive processes and successful appointments.