HEAD OF MIDDLE SCHOOL

Ecarams; Akron (OH); On-site; USD 90,000 - 113,000; Full time

Job summary

Emmanuel Christian Academy in Akron, OH, seeks a Head of Middle School to lead grades 4–8 with a biblical worldview and high academic standards. The role combines instructional, spiritual, and operational leadership to guide curriculum, faculty development, student culture, and parent communication.

The ideal candidate will have a minimum of five years of teaching experience, strong interpersonal skills, and a track record in Christian education leadership.

Qualifications

• Active Christian faith and alignment with the school’s beliefs are required.
• Strong communication and collaboration with staff, parents, and students are essential.
• Ability to lead and mentor teachers in a Christian educational context.

Responsibilities

• Provide Christ-centered leadership for grades 4–8.
• Oversee curriculum, staffing, and professional development.
• Support student discipline and a safe learning environment.

Skills

Leadership

Interpersonal skills

Cross-cultural experience

Christian education

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree desired

ACSI certification

Job description

HEAD OF MIDDLE SCHOOL (in addition to general guidelines and expectations)

Position Summary

The Head of Middle School serves as the instructional, spiritual, and operational leader for grades 4–8. This role ensures that teaching and learning reflect a biblical worldview, high academic standards, and a nurturing environment that supports student growth. The Head of Middle School oversees curriculum, faculty professional and leadership development, student culture, parent communication, and day-to-day operations for the division.

Classification: Exempt

Reports to: Chief School Administrator

Supervises: Middle School Faculty (Grades 4–8), Tutors, Special Services Staff (14 total)

Spiritual Qualifications

The Head of Middle School / Assistant Director of Educational Programs must demonstrate a mature, growing Christian faith and actively support the spiritual mission of Emmanuel Christian Academy. The individual in this role is expected to:

• Be an active member of a local Christian church whose doctrine and practices align with the school’s Statement of Faith and core beliefs.
• Demonstrate a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, evidenced through lifestyle, integrity, and commitment to Christian community.
• Affirm and uphold the school’s Statement of Faith, Christian philosophy of education, and biblical worldview in all leadership responsibilities.
• Model Christlike character in interactions with students, staff, and families.
• Participate regularly in corporate worship, discipleship, and Christian fellowship.
• Support and contribute to the spiritual formation of students and staff through prayer, encouragement, and biblical guidance.

Primary Responsibilities

• Spiritual & Community Leadership
• Provide Christ-centered leadership in partnership with the Chief School Administration.
• Model Christian character and support spiritual formation for students and staff.
• Coordinate chapel speakers and maintain relationships with local pastors and community leaders.
• Build strong relationships with parents, and school community groups by attending and coordinating meetings and assisting in school-sponsored events.
• Instructional Leadership & Academic Oversight
• Direct the selection, evaluation, and implementation of curriculum and instructional materials for grades 4–8.
• Supervise and coordinate all special services, including tutoring, counseling, psychological testing, hearing screenings, gifted programs, summer school, entrepreneurship programs, and specialized reading interventions.
• Conduct regular classroom observations, provide coaching, and complete formal staff evaluations.
• Serve as a mentor and resource for new teachers.
• Provide ongoing professional development for faculty, including ACSI and OMLA opportunities.
• Assist in the hiring process and lead new teacher orientation.
• Oversee student discipline, ensuring a safe, orderly, and Christ-honoring environment.
• Support teachers in classroom management and intervene when necessary.
• Collaborate with the school counselor on student support, career planning, and high school transition activities.
• Administrative & Compliance Responsibilities
• Prepare and submit required reports to local, state, and federal agencies.
• Ensure employee records are maintained according to state and school policies.
• Monitor student records, attendance, and academic progress.
• Communicate school policies and procedures to parents and staff.
• Submit monthly written reports to the Principal/Administrator.
• Meet regularly with the administrative team.
• Parent, Community, and Public Relations
• Serve as a primary point of contact for parent concerns related to middle school.
• Communicate and publicize school activities, events, and fundraisers through media outlets when appropriate.
• Assist with grant applications and fundraising initiatives.
• Research & Program Development
• Conduct demographic research on student populations, community needs, academic trends, and enrollment patterns.
• Track student progress longitudinally, including transitions to other schools.
• Oversee middle school programs such as electives, clubs, and entrepreneurship initiatives.

General Responsibilities

• Administer all programs in accordance with Board policies and school procedures.
• Write letters of recommendation for students.
• Collaborate with the guidance counselor on career programs, high school visits, and special initiatives.

Additional Duties (as needed)

• Extended Day Team Leader
• Substitute teaching (Prekindergarten–8th)
• Lunchroom, recess, ISS, study hall, or office coverage
• Serve as a member of the LPDC and Education Committee
• Maintain organization of immediate office area.
• Oversee Teacher Supply Room orderliness.

Preferred Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years teaching experience .
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Experience working in multicultural school environments.
• Demonstrated leadership ability in Christian education.
• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree in Education or Educational Leadership preferred.
• ACSI certification (or willingness to obtain).

Mental Requirements

• Ability to maintain emotional stability when working with students, staff, and parents in sensitive or stressful situations.
• Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills to assess situations, make decisions, and implement solutions.
• Capacity to manage multiple tasks, deadlines, and priorities in a fast-paced school environment.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, discretion, and confidentiality in all matters.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing, with diverse groups of individuals.
• Flexibility and adaptability in response to changing needs, schedules, or unexpected challenges.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team while also functioning independently when required.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, walk, and move throughout the school building for extended periods.
• Ability to lift, carry, or move materials and supplies up to 25 pounds.
• Sufficient vision, hearing, and speech to perform essential job functions and communicate effectively.
• Ability to bend, reach, stoop, and perform light physical tasks associated with classroom or office environments.
• Ability to supervise students indoors and outdoors, including during recess, arrival/dismissal, and school events.
• Ability to respond quickly and appropriately in emergency situations.
• Stamina to maintain a full workday that may include after-school activities or events