The Head of Middle and Upper Schools serves as the primary steward of relationships within the division, fostering a culture of trust, collaboration, and pride among faculty, students, and families. Acting as a visible and approachable leader, the Head oversees the academic, co-curricular, and extracurricular programs for Grades 6–12 while promoting a cohesive, inclusive community. With a focus on strong communication and collaboration, the Head ensures alignment with the school’s mission and core values, actively addressing the needs of students, faculty, and families. Reporting to the Head of School, this position combines visionary leadership with operational excellence, serving as the “mayor” of the division and an advocate for its success.

Primary Job Responsibilities:

Academic and Co-Curricular Leadership

• Collaborate with department chairs, the Dean of Academics, and faculty to develop, articulate, and implement curriculum, pedagogy, materials, and assessments appropriate to Middle and Upper School students’ developmental stages.
• Oversee the academic progress of students, reviewing grade reports and comments at each marking period and coordinating appropriate follow-up with students, faculty, and families.
• Work closely with the Dean of Academics to ensure vertical alignment of curriculum and foster a seamless Pre-K–12 academic experience.
• Supervise the coordination of co-curricular and extracurricular programs, ensuring they complement the school’s academic and social goals.
• Meet regularly with department chairs, faculty, and other reporting positions to ensure clear communication and alignment on divisional goals.

Faculty Leadership and Mentorship

 Lead the hiring process for Middle and Upper School faculty and reporting positions.

• Facilitate monthly new faculty meetings in partnership with the Academic Dean, providing support and guidance for new hires.
• Supervise and evaluate faculty performance, offering regular feedback and creating opportunities for professional growth.
• Cultivate a positive and collegial faculty culture, serving as both a mentor and advocate for faculty well-being.

Community Building and Communication

 As the “mayor” of the Division, foster a culture of pride and connection among students, parents, and faculty.

• Serve as the voice of the Middle and Upper Schools, articulating programs, expectations, and behavioral guidelines to ensure all constituencies are informed and aligned.
• Meet regularly with representatives of the student and parent communities to address concerns and celebrate successes.
• Work closely with the Head of the Lower School to build bridges between divisions and support the unique qualities of each grade level.
• Represent the Middle and Upper Schools at admissions and development events, parent meetings, and Board of Trustees committees.

Student Support and Engagement

 Supervise the resolution of student, parent, and teacher concerns, responding to and resolving sensitive issues related to policies and procedures.

• Oversee the social, emotional, and behavioral health of students, partnering with counselors and the Dean of Students to maintain a supportive school climate.
• Serve as an active and visible presence at divisional events and performances to celebrate student achievements.
• Promote student safety and wellness, serving on the Threat Assessment Team and as an administrator on duty after school hours.

Operational and Administrative Leadership

 Develop and manage the Middle and Upper Schools’ budget in collaboration with the Head of School.

• Oversee the division’s daily operations, including the coordination of schedules, events, and faculty assignments.
• Regularly review divisional policies, ensuring alignment with the school’s mission and best practices.
• Partner with the registrar and other staff to maintain accurate student records and facilitate course enrollment.

Strategic Leadership and Collaboration

 Collaborate with the Head of School, Academic Dean, and other divisional leaders to support strategic school-wide initiatives.

• Represent the Middle and Upper Schools at admissions events, parent meetings, and Board of Trustees committees.

Additional Responsibilities

 Teach the equivalent of one course each semester

• Serve on the Administrative and Operations Teams, Academic Council, and other committees as determined by the Head of School.
• Collaborate with the Head of School, Academic Dean, and other divisional leaders to support strategic school-wide initiatives.
• Supervises:
  • Athletic Director
  • Dean of Students
  • International Student Coordinator
  • Faculty (w Dept Chairs)
  • Assistant to the Division Heads and Onboarding Coordinator
  • School Counselor (w LSH)
  • School Nurse (w LSH)
  • Middle and Upper School Substitute teachers

Requirements:

• Master’s degree in education or a related field, or significant school leadership experience, or both.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with a wide range of stakeholders, including students, faculty, parents, and administrators.
• Proven experience in educational leadership, including managing teams, resolving conflicts, and fostering a positive culture.
• Strong personal and communication skills, with the ability to inspire confidence and enthusiasm in others.
• Commitment to continuous professional growth and staying current with research and best practices in education.
• Successful teaching experience at the middle or upper school level (preferably both), with a deep understanding of adolescent development.
• Appreciation for and understanding of the critical role of the arts, athletics, and co-curricular activities in a school community.
• Familiarity with the unique challenges and opportunities in independent schools.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to perform occasional physical tasks (e.g., setting up events, lifting up to 40 pounds).

Key Skills, Abilities, and Qualities

• Ability to articulate, implement, and advocate for a compelling vision, aligned with the school’s mission, core values, and strategic plan.
• Approachability and empathy, fostering trust and collaboration among students, faculty, and families.
• Strong communication skills, inspiring enthusiasm and clarity through both public speaking and personal interactions.
• Confidence and decisiveness in managing complex challenges and making informed decisions.
• Effective conflict resolution and consensus-building abilities.
• Commitment to inclusivity and ensuring all voices in the community are heard and valued.
• Genuine openness to feedback and collaboration with diverse constituencies.
• Resilience under pressure, with a pragmatic approach to problem-solving, buoyed by a sense of humor and a joyful appreciation for working in schools.

Salary Range: $85,000 - $105,000

Interested candidates should submit resume, cover letter, and references to Kim Liebowtiz, executive assistant to the head of school, at kliebowitz@mphschool.org.

About Manlius Pebble Hill School

Connections working at Manlius Pebble Hill School