About Us
We are a small, progressive K–10 school grounded in inquiry-based, student-centered learning. Our mixed-age classrooms emphasize exploration and curiosity, nurturing the whole child while providing strong foundational instruction in core subjects.
At the heart of our approach is a deep respect for student voice and autonomy. We support children in thinking critically, asking their own questions, and listening to one another with empathy and respect—moving beyond rote memorization toward meaningful understanding. Learning experiences often involve examining artifacts and primary sources, engaging in role plays, and conducting hands-on experiments.
We are an inclusive, proudly neurodiverse community. Comfort, joy, adaptability, and flexibility in working with a wide range of learners are central to our culture.
Position Description
The Academic Dean provides leadership in the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of the school’s academic programs from Kindergarten through Grade 12. This role is responsible for establishing and advancing academic strategies, ensuring curricula align with regulatory requirements and educational best practices, and overseeing faculty development and instructional resources to support high-quality teaching and learning outcomes.
The school offers a balanced educational program that combines inquiry-based learning in Social Studies and Science with strong foundational instruction in Literacy and Mathematics. Equal emphasis is placed on fostering the social-emotional growth and well-being of all learners.
The ideal candidate will have experience working with students across a range of grade levels and learning needs, as well as demonstrated success in an inquiry-based educational environment. A commitment to student-centered learning, academic excellence, and collaborative leadership is essential.
This is a part-time (.5 FTE equivalent) contract position.
The successful candidate will be:
- Caring, compassionate, and nurturing
- An educator with special education experience
- Advanced in the knowledge of IEPs and differentiated learning
- Seeking an opportunity to advance their educational administrative aspirations
- A high-energy person with enthusiasm and passion for children
- Demonstrated experience in a school leadership position (minimum 2 years)
- Familiar with progressive, emergent curriculum, constructivist pedagogy, and inquiry-based learning
- Experienced in overseeing faculty development, instructional resources, and teaching effectiveness.
- Accepting and embracing diversity at every level
Application Materials:
- Resume
- Letter of interest
- List of references (to be contacted during the shortlist process)
Pay: From $30,000.00 per year
Application Question(s):
- Why are you interested in serving as academic dean at a small, progressive school like Springwell?
Work Location: In person
