Executive Director

About University Prep Public SchoolsFounded in 2007 by Randi Weingarten, President of the United Federation of Teachers, and Steve Barr, Founder of Green Dot Public Schools, University Prep Public Schools operates free, public charter schools in the South Bronx. Our network is authorized by the State University of New York (SUNY). We serve approximately 450 high school students and 370 middle school students, offering a rigorous, relevant, and engaging education that empowers students with the skills needed to succeed in college and career. Our vision is to see scholars create a legacy of education that leads to career achievement and financial independence. Our school model combines a strong, positive, supportive school culture based on academic excellence and student leadership, emphasizing the importance of teacher and staff voice in site-based decision-making. Notably, we have a 100% college acceptance rate, ultimately altering the life opportunities of our graduates. Students in our network consistently show significant growth, both academically and personally.Position SummaryThe Executive Director serves as the chief executive officer of University Prep Public Schools, providing visionary leadership and strategic direction to ensure the network's mission, goals, and educational standards are achieved. The Executive Director is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the schools' operations, including academic programs, financial management, community engagement, and compliance with regulatory requirements. This role requires a dynamic leader with a proven track record in educational leadership, a passion for student success, and the ability to inspire and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.Key ResponsibilitiesLeadership and VisionDevelop and implement a strategic vision aligned with University Prep's mission and goals.Foster a culture of excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement across the network.Serve as the primary spokesperson and advocate for University Prep, representing its interests to the community, partners, and stakeholders.Academic ExcellenceOversee the design, implementation, and assessment of academic programs to ensure high-quality instruction and student achievement.Support teachers and staff in professional development and instructional best practices.Monitor and analyze student performance data to drive decision-making and improve outcomes.Operational and Financial ManagementManage the network's budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility and sustainability.Oversee the allocation of resources, including staffing, facilities, and technology.Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations and align with our SUNY authorization.Community Engagement and PartnershipsBuild strong relationships with parents, families, and the broader Bronx community to foster trust and collaboration.Develop partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and higher education institutions to enhance educational opportunities.Promote University Prep's achievements and initiatives through effective communication and outreach.Staff Development and CultureObserve and evaluate the performance of the High School and Middle School Principals,Assistant Principals, and Operations administrators, providing constructive feedback and guidance to ensure the highest standards of leadership and operational excellence.Support the schools' hiring committees with recruitment, and school administrators with the retention of a high-performing team of educators and staff.Promote a positive and inclusive school culture, across both schools, that values diversity, equity, and inclusion.Provide mentorship and leadership development opportunities for staff.Governance and Board RelationsWork closely with the Board of Trustees to develop policies, set priorities, and achieve strategic goals.Provide regular updates and reports to the Board on network performance, finances, and operations.Implement Board decisions and ensure alignment with University Prep's mission and vision.QualificationsLicenses and Certifications - Preferred, but not mandatorySchool Building Leader License (SBL)School District Leader License (SDL)Teaching LicenseEducation and ExperienceMaster's degree in Education, Educational Leadership, or a related field.Approximately five years of experience in educational leadership, preferably as a principal,superintendent, or executive director.Proven track record of improving student outcomes and leading successful school initiatives.Experience managing budgets, grants, and financial resources in an educational setting.Experience in assessment and evaluation of staff and faculty.At least three years of exemplary classroom teaching experience.Successful experience writing grants for school funding.Skills and CompetenciesStrong leadership and decision-making skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate others.Excellent written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engagediverse stakeholders.Comprehensive understanding of curriculum development, instructional best practices, andassessment strategies.Knowledge of local, state, and federal education laws and regulations, particularly as they relateto charter schools.Ability to think strategically, solve complex problems, and manage multiple priorities.Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion in education.Strong understanding of the politics of education reform.Keen interest in educational policy.Experience as a member of a union.Application ProcessInterested candidates should submit the following materials to UPPSjobs@ by March 31, 2025:1. A cover letter outlining their qualifications and vision for the role.2. A current resume.3. Contact information of three professional references and the role in which they know you. In the cover letter (no more than two pages), applicants should address the following questions:Why are you interested in working at University Prep Public Schools?What role should public schools play in addressing issues of equity in our society?How can schools best find a balance between setting high academic expectations for individual students and supporting these students by "meeting them where they are" in life?Beyond this job description, is there anything you would like to share that illustrates how you are particularly well-suited to this role?University Prep Public Schools is committed to building a diverse and inclusive community and encourages applications from all qualified individuals.Equal Opportunity Employer StatementUniversity Prep Public Schools is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status.

Created: 2025-03-06