Head of School

Head of School Position DescriptionOrganizational and Position Summary: The Black River Independent School Committee (BRISC) is engaged in the preservation of quality local education in Southern Vermont. BRISC is currently working to open Black River Independent School to serve students in grades 7-12, in Ludlow VT.BRISC is committed to: WE ARE COMMITTED TO-Developing an innovative independent school that provides the best possible education for the children of our community, a school that strives for excellence and brings out the personal best in every student, a school that will attract new families to our communities.-Working towards a smooth transition from the current public school to an independent school. -Offering competitive compensation and benefits to attract and retain highly qualified, motivated, and committed staff.-Providing transportation for students in Ludlow and Mount Holly who choose to attend Black River Independent School.-Developing a strategic plan for the school that will include; collaborations with local non-profit institutions, universities and businesses, as well as a financial sustainability proposal.The Black River Independent School Committee (BRISC) is seeking an experienced, self-directed, caring and innovative Head of School to lead the opening of its new Ludlow, Vermont campus. Black River Independent School, a non-profit independent 7th-12th grade middle school and high school, will open to students in Fall of 2020.

The Head of School will lead and support a dynamic team of staff and faculty to provide students with a challenging and meaningful curricula and academics. Our curriculum will be based on the Expeditionary Learning Model. Black River Independent School is projected to open with 50-75 students from the local and surrounding communities. Situated in the heart of a small resort town, the school will be committed to serving the unique challenges and opportunities for students living in rural Vermont.

The Head of School will be dedicated to helping students achieve success inside and outside of the classroom through personalized learning; hands-on experiential and vocational training in the community and local technical schools; and immersive exploration and experiences through local outdoor education. The ideal candidate will demonstrate skills and knowledge in academics and personalized learning, as well as admissions and fundraising. This position may initially include part time classroom instruction. The Head of School will be involved in setting up and preparing for the new school campus in the Okemo Valley.

Responsibilities and duties include but are not limited to: -Bring to life Black River Independent Schools vision offering a challenging and meaningful middle and high school education that balances active exploration, adventure, an integrated curriculum, and authentic and meaningful engagement.-Implement the six pillars of its mission: Global Breadth of Perspective, Democratic Participation and Justice, Environmental Stewardship, Outdoor Adventure, Personal Action and Engagement in Community.-Work collaboratively and communicate regularly with Board of Trustees.-Develop and implement strategic plans and employ well-founded, collaborative, and researched administrative decision-making.-Identify and promote effective instructional practices.-Direct, supervise, and coordinate activities and events for the school.-Implement and conduct discipline procedures.-Direct and participate in classroom visitations, observations, and evaluations.-Establish, coordinate, and maintain communication with students, community, and parents.-Collaborate and communicate with Special Education Coordinator.-Lead a diverse school by creating and fostering a student-focused atmosphere.-Lead the hiring of school faculty.-Develop and manage budgets. Essential Qualities and Qualifications: -Understanding of and belief in the organizations mission, vision, and values with a strong commitment to education.-Advanced degree in Education preferred but not required.-Minimum five years of classroom experience.-Experience leading school staff, faculty and students, grades 7-12, in public or private school. -Strong leadership, time management and multitasking skills.-Good sense of accountability, strong dependability, and impeccable integrity.-Comfort working with a diverse base of support and stakeholders, including parents, community leaders, volunteers, donors, other nonprofit organizations, agencies, and business partners.-Excellent oral and written communication skills.-Foundational knowledge in instructional technologies including and understanding of learning management software.-A commitment to understanding and addressing the unique needs of students in a small, rural community.-Highly ethical, particularly in working with confidential or sensitive information, and the ability to pass a background check.-Flexible schedule outside of typical working hours, with the ability and willingness to work occasional nights or weekends as necessary.-Ability to provide own car, insurance, and valid drivers license and willingness to travel throughout the Okemo Valley.Application Process and Other Details: -Limitations and Disclaimer: The above job description describes the general nature and level of work to be performed; it is not meant to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required for the position.-Timeline: Position will remain open until filled. Applications will be reviewed and candidates considered on a rolling basis.

A mutually agreed upon start date will be determined at the time of hire.-Employment Status: This is a full time position. -Compensation: Salary range is in accordance with demonstrated skills and relevant past success and experience. There is strong potential for salary advancement with the establishment of the school.-Confidential Application Process: Email your resume and cover letter summarizing your interest, fit with qualifications, and experience with Head of School Position in the subject line to brisc.hire1@gmail.com. Please no phone inquiries; we will contact you should we want to move forward with a phone screening and/or interview.-Equal Opportunity Employer: Qualified applicants from all cultures and communities are encouraged to apply.