Job Description: Assistant Head of School
American Classical Academy Rutherford
2 Ingram Blvd, La Vergne, TN
About the School
American Classical Academy Rutherford (ACAR) is a tuition-free, public classical charter school located in La Vergne, TN. Opened in August 2024, ACAR serves students in grades K–7 and will grow one grade level per year until becoming a full K–12 institution. ACAR is part of the Barney Charter School Initiative of Hillsdale College, a national network of classical charter schools united by curriculum and purpose.
The mission of ACAR is to train the minds and develop the character of students through a content-rich classical education in the liberal arts and sciences, with instruction in moral character and civic virtue.
The Assistant Head of School plays a vital role in supporting this mission by ensuring strong daily operations, high academic standards, and a structured, orderly school culture.
Position Overview
The Assistant Head of School serves as a key instructional and operational leader, supporting the Head of School in the day-to-day management of the campus. This role requires strong leadership, organization, and communication skills, as well as a deep commitment to student achievement and character formation.
The Assistant Head of School oversees student support systems, assessment coordination, special populations programs, and daily school operations while maintaining a visible and active presence throughout the school day.
Responsibilities
Responsibilities of this role include, but are not limited to:
Daily School Operations
- Oversee morning arrival procedures, including car line management
- Facilitate Check-In/Check-Out (CICO) systems, including systems developed for ACAR
- Participate in standing meetings with the Head of School, PTO, and service providers (SLP) on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays
- Supervise cafeteria duty (10:40 AM – 11:30 AM)
- Maintain strong daily visibility by meeting with students, parents, and teachers as needed (minimum once per day)
- Respond to and manage escalated student behavior incidents
- Lead student support management, including referrals and intervention coordination
Student Services & Special Populations
- Serve as case manager and oversee compliance for Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), including writing, meetings, and documentation
- Manage and lead the Special Populations Team, including:
- English Learners (EL)
- Special Education (SPED)
- Literacy specialists
- Coordinate and oversee work-related services through Project Play and other partner organizations
Assessment & Testing Coordination
- Serve as the school Testing Coordinator and Proctor, including:
- Fall, Winter, and Spring NWEA and Aimsweb testing
- ELPA21 Screener within the first 30 days of school
- ELPA21 Summative Assessment (February–March)
- TCAP Testing (April)
- Manage student rostering and testing systems to ensure accuracy and compliance
School Leadership & Collaboration
- Lead and facilitate School Advisory Council (SAC) meetings, including agenda creation, data review, and meeting notes
- Provide guidance and feedback to teachers to support instructional improvement and classroom management
- Maintain strong communication with families and staff regarding student progress and school initiatives
Special Projects & Strategic Initiatives
- Plan and coordinate professional development (PD) for staff
- Develop and implement a Kindergarten screening process
- Attend required network and district trainings, including:
- BTC
- SPED
- ELL
- TVAAS
- Create and maintain car line systems and spreadsheets
- Train teachers on Skyward and other school systems
- Coordinate school picture day logistics, including Jostens rostering and scheduling
- Develop and adjust support staff schedules as needed
Community & School Culture
- Support PTO initiatives, including:
- Thanksgiving lunch coordination
- January clothing drive
- Assist with faculty engagement and morale initiatives, including:
- Holiday events and staff celebrations
- Ongoing teacher feedback and engagement efforts
- Prepare and distribute family communication, including flyers and announcements
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree in education or leadership preferred
- Experience in school leadership, instructional coaching, or administration
- Strong knowledge of special education compliance, testing coordination, and student support systems
- Exceptional organizational, problem-solving, and leadership skills
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Commitment to the mission and classical education model of ACAR
Professional Expectations
The Assistant Head of School is expected to:
- Maintain a school culture that reflects ACAR’s commitment to order, excellence, and character formation
- Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and strong leadership at all times
- Build positive, respectful relationships with students, staff, and families
- Ensure compliance with all academic, operational, and regulatory expectations
- Serve as a key leader and steward of the school’s mission and daily success
Pay: From $70,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
Work Location: In person
