Director of Specials Job Description
Department: Concept Schools Academic Department
Reports to: Chief Academic Officer
Location: Concept Schools Central Office, 1336 Basswood Road, Schaumburg, IL 60173
About Us:
Concept Schools is a leading not-for-profit Charter Management Organization (CMO) committed to providing quality education and fostering academic excellence among students. Concept Schools provides a high-quality, STEM-focused, and college-preparatory education through a network of charter public schools while offering exceptional programs, comprehensive services, and opportunities to partner in education. Concept manages 34 schools across the Midwest and supports the teaching and learning of 13,500 K-12 students.
With a mission to prepare students for college and beyond, we strive to develop well-rounded individuals who can contribute positively to society. We are currently seeking a highly motivated and experienced individual to join our team as the Director of Specials.
Position Overview:
The Specials Department include Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Physical Education, and Athletics.
As the Director of the Specials Department, you will play a pivotal role in providing leadership and support to Concept's network of 34 schools across seven states. Your responsibilities will include curriculum development, assessment implementation, resource optimization, policy communication, collaboration with content directors, and providing professional development opportunities for “Specials” teachers. The Director will organize networkwide student events and ensure schools organize major student events related to specials subject areas.
Travel is required for the position and may constitute up to 25% of the total time, with being heavier at times such as the beginning of the school year. This position reports directly to the Chief Academic Officer.
Primary Role and Purpose:
The Director collaborates with colleagues from various departments, school administrators, and teaching staff to fulfill assigned tasks and responsibilities, ultimately contributing to the achievement of Concept Schools' goals.
Responsibilities:
Curriculum Development:
- Design and implement a comprehensive curriculum for all Specials courses that align with Concept Schools' vision and objectives.
- Incorporate foundational skills, balanced literacy approaches, and Common Core standards into the curriculum.
- Work collaboratively with content directors to ensure a cohesive and integrated approach to teaching Specials courses.
Instructional Support:
- Provide guidance and support to Specials teachers in delivering effective instruction.
- Analyze instructional practices, systems, and controls in Concept Schools, recommending improvements as necessary.
- Facilitate professional development programs, conferences, workshops, and Concept Events for Specials teachers.
Resource Optimization:
- Identify and optimize resources to help school communities achieve specific benchmark goals in Specials courses.
- Make informed decisions on instructional supplies, textbooks, and equipment, managing inventory and records effectively.
- Develop and maintain the departmental website and/or Social Media accounts to facilitate communication and resource sharing.
Assessment and Data Analysis:
- Implement standardized test practices and analyze assessment data to provide recommendations for re-teaching and improvement.
- Utilize data effectively to inform instructional decision-making and support student achievement.
- Conduct school site visits, observe teacher performance, and hold online meetings with school leaders and department heads.
Communication and Collaboration:
- Communicate policies, practices, and procedures related to Specials education to school leaders and teachers.
- Collaborate with colleagues from other departments to promote a balanced literacy approach and integrate literacy skills in all classes.
- Foster a collaborative environment, working closely with faculty to establish program priorities and departmental vision.
Student Events:
- Coordinate network-wide student events, including fairs and competitions in related subject areas, across Concept Schools.
- Support schools and regions in planning and executing their local student events.
- Conduct research on local, regional, and national fairs and competitions, providing opportunities for students in specialized areas and encouraging school participation in these events.
Qualifications:
- Master's degree in Education or a related field (Bachelor's degree considered based on experience).
- Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Specials teacher.
- Strong understanding of Specials content areas and Common Core standards.
- Proven experience in curriculum development and implementation.
- Proficiency in data analysis and using data to drive instructional decisions.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively, reach a consensus, and build effective relationships.
- Proficiency with computers, including desktop and file management, operating in a network environment.
- Willingness to travel interstate to visit schools within the network
Exceptional candidates who possess exemplary skills, training, and a track record of success may be considered, even if they do not meet all the stated requirements.
Joining Concept Schools as the Director of Specials offers an exceptional opportunity to make a significant impact on students' educational journey. If you are passionate about Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Physical Education and Athletics education, possess strong leadership abilities, and are committed to student success, we encourage you to apply for this position and become part of our dynamic team.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $80,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Professional development assistance
- Relocation assistance
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
Work setting:
Education:
License/Certification:
- Teaching/Admin License (Preferred)
Ability to Commute:
- Schaumburg, IL 60173 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Schaumburg, IL 60173: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)
Willingness to travel:
Work Location: In person