Assistant Director for the JMU Lab School in the College of Education

State of Virginia•Harrisonburg, VA

35d

About The Position

The JMU LAB School is seeking applications for an Assistant Director to assist the Executive Director in all aspects of the total LAB School program for JMU/Rockingham County Public Schools (RCPS) by providing educational leadership for students and staff consistent with initiative goals. JMU LAB School is committed to providing a research based interdisciplinary curriculum approach to learning for students at the secondary level with a focus on project-based and place-based learning.

Requirements

Minimum of master's degree in educational leadership or related field.
Strong understanding of elementary/secondary education and special education practices.
Knowledge of effective teaching methods and school leadership strategies.
Skilled in delivering clear and engaging oral and written communication.
Able to build positive, effective working relationships with students, staff, families, and the community.
Demonstrated record of significant leadership and teaching experience, preferably in the P-12 setting.
Demonstrated knowledge/experience in working with higher education partners.
Demonstrated commitment to improving school quality and teacher effectiveness.

Nice To Haves

Professional Virginia educator's license with endorsement in Administration/Supervision.

Responsibilities

Observe and support classroom instruction and teaching practices in assigned areas.
Help implement curriculum and educational goals aligned with school objectives.
Create and manage systems to evaluate student progress and program effectiveness, recommending changes when needed.
Guide teachers on instructional strategies, classroom management, and student behavior.
Collaborate with staff to review and improve instructional methods and student outcomes.
Support teachers and the Community Engagement Liaison with place based experiences and the use of local resources.
Lead and support professional development and school improvement initiatives.
Promote effective communication through meetings, committees, and one-on-one discussions.
Foster a safe, respectful, and disciplined environment for students and staff.
Enforce school and district policies in line with JMU, RCPS, and state education regulations.
Support the Executive Director with staff hiring and personnel procedures.
Plan and participate in staff training and development programs.
Collaborate with the Executive Director and Community Engagement Liaison to build strong school-community partnerships:
Communicate with families through programs, letters, phone calls, and in-person meetings.
Encourage strong relationships between students, staff, families, and the wider community.
Work together with others to identify resources and support for students from varied backgrounds.
Model professionalism, ethics, and integrity in all interactions
Work cooperatively with administrators, staff, and community members to support the LAB School's mission and goals.
Attend and contribute to meetings with families and community groups.
Build positive relationships with students, staff, and community members.
Use data to inform decisions and improve practices.
Identify and resolve problems effectively using strong decision-making skills.
Maintain appropriate and respectful boundaries with students and serve as a positive role model.
Demonstrate professional behavior and communication.
Take on responsibilities outside the classroom as needed to support school functions.
Always practice and promote a welcoming and supportive environment
Perform other related duties as assigned by the Executive Director, following school and district policies.