Lower School Division Head

Position Summary : The Lower School Division Head for Beginners (age 3) to 2nd Grade is a key academic and administrative leader responsible for the day-to-day leadership of the program, faculty, and students. Working closely with the Associate Head of Teaching & Learning and the school’s leadership team, the Division Head helps shape and implement a vibrant educational program that reflects the school’s mission and values. This role provides instructional leadership, supports faculty growth, fosters a positive and inclusive school culture, and partners with families to support student success.

The Division Head also collaborates with colleagues across the school on admissions, student support, and institutional initiatives, serving as a visible and engaged presence in the community. Full-time. This position is for the 2027-28 school year, starting July 1, 2027.

Mission and Leadership

• Partner with the school’s leadership team to shape and implement a vision for the Lower School that aligns with the school’s mission and values.
• Collaborate with the Associate Head of Teaching & Learning on faculty hiring, retention, and assignment, and provide input on divisional programs, priorities, and concerns.
• Foster a positive, safe, and inclusive school climate that supports learning and emphasizes character development.
• Maintain proactive communication with parents, faculty, and staff.
• Support smooth transitions for students and families between grades and divisions.
• Be a visible and accessible presence for faculty, staff, students, parents, alumni, and visitors.

Faculty Leadership and Operations

• Lead regular Lower School faculty meetings focused on school operations, instructional practice, and professional dialogue.
• Coach and evaluate faculty through classroom observations, goal setting, and professional development in areas such as instructional methods, classroom management, and school procedures.
• Build strong relationships with faculty and staff, supporting their growth and success.
  Serve on the Instructional Leadership Team, collaborating closely with the Upper School Division Head and Director of Learning Support.
• Participate in the recruitment and interview process for prospective teaching candidates and make hiring recommendations.
• Ensure faculty understanding and adherence to school policies and procedures.

Student Support

• Work with the Student Success Team to support the academic, social, emotional, and physical well-being of students.
• Oversee grading practices and the consistent reporting of student progress.
  Maintain a strong presence in student life and ensure decisions are centered on students’ best interests.
• Review and guide class placements each year to support balanced and healthy classroom communities.

Admissions and Enrollment

• Support the admissions process by participating in testing, interviews, and evaluation of Lower School applicants.
• Collaborate with the enrollment management team to attract and retain mission-aligned students and families.
• Represent the school’s philosophy and program to prospective families.

Community Engagement and Additional Responsibilities

• Facilitate parent education opportunities and support family engagement.
• Partner with the advancement team on fundraising initiatives that benefit the division.
• Assist with school assemblies, programs, and community events.
• Attend key school functions, including occasional evening and weekend events.
• Participate in professional conferences and ongoing development to remain current with best practices.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in education  
• Previous school administration experience preferred
• 5 – 10 years of experience as a lead teacher (preferably in early elementary grades)
• Possess a strong understanding of the developmental needs of early elementary-aged students
• Proven success working collaboratively in educational leadership

Benefits

• Rich benefits include health, dental, vision care, disability, and life insurance.
• Retirement savings plan with school contributions after one year.
• Professional development opportunities and training
• Proven success working collaboratively in educational leadership
• Easy access to public transportation (Chestnut Hill D Line stop) with paid MBTA passes.

The Chestnut Hill School is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, sex, disabilities, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression or family composition or any other status protected by applicable law in the administration of its employment, education, admission, financial aid, and other policies and programs.

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.