Head of Lower School

Overview

The Head of Lower School must carry out his or her responsibilities to the glory of God. The Head of Lower School reports directly to the Academic Dean. The Head of Lower School is expected: (1) to exhibit consistent fruit of the Spirit and spiritual maturity; (2) to pursue wisdom, beauty, truth, and goodness; (3) to promote the school's classical Christian philosophy of education and overall vision; (4) to foster healthy culture and curriculum toward the ideal graduate; and (5) to facilitate the school's true partnership with parents.

Responsibilities

The Head of Lower School is responsible for leadership in matters related to culture, discipleship, and
discipline in the Lower School. The Head of Lower School ensures that curriculum and co-curricular programs align with Pinnacle's mission to offer a robust classical, Christian education. He or she nurtures a loving and orderly culture centered around the gospel. The Head of Lower School reports directly to the Academic Dean. Those reporting directly to the Head of Lower School include the Lower School faculty and staff.

Culture

Embody and articulate the mission and vision of Pinnacle
Provide vision, direction, and inspiration to faculty, students, and parents
Promote scholarship, spiritual growth, and Christian community
Supervise curriculum, instruction, and assessment in cooperation with the Academic Dean
Serve as a member of the school's senior leadership team
Promote an orderly and joyful atmosphere among teachers and students
Foster a love of classical Christian education
Hire, develop, and evaluate faculty and staff

Discipleship

Provide instructional leadership and pedagogical growth for faculty
Maintain a regular schedule of teacher supervision, observations, and evaluation
Build trust with parents through missional clarity, relational warmth, and situational wisdom
Encourage and assist students in developing leadership and cultivating friendships
Work with the Academic Dean to keep academic documents current, evaluate and select curriculum, and review academic practices
Approve field trips and special activities

Discipline

Oversee and enforce student discipline as a manifestation of love, shepherding, and reconciliation
Guide and train faculty and staff in discipline to preserve a Christlike community
Assist the Head of School in reviewing behavioral guidelines and standards
Ensure that student policies, such as the uniform policy, are being followed daily
Communicate with parents about any attendance or disciplinary issues
Ensure staff and faculty are adhering to school policies and procedures

Qualifications, Experience, and Attributes

Required

Mature and growing Christian faith, with a clear personal testimony and full agreement with Pinnacle’s
Statement of Faith, mission, and vision
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
Ability to lead and manage staff, oversee complex processes, and work collaboratively with senior
leadership, faculty, and parents
Gracious and loving demeanor with ability to discipline students with the gospel
Strong organizational and pedagogical skills, with the ability to train teachers effectively
Comfort and effectiveness in public speaking, event planning/execution, and one-on-one family
counseling conversations
Multiple years of classroom teaching experience

Preferred

Master’s degree (preferably in an educational field)
Familiarity with classical Christian education as a teacher or parent
Leadership experience in a school or similarly structured organization

Character

Wisdom, discernment, and discretion to handle complex behavioral and corrective situations
Kindness and approachability that are inviting to both staff and parents
Love for virtue and a desire to cultivate it in staff, parents, and students
Enthusiastic about classical Christian education and Pinnacle’s community
Speaks the truth in love for the edification of our staff and students, even in difficult circumstances