This opening calls for specific administration
qualifications set by the school.
Confidential Search: Assistant Head of School
PK–8 | ~250 students | 2026–2027 School Year
Exclusively managed by CalWest Educators Placement
The Opportunity
A well-resourced, mission-driven independent school (PK–8, ~250 students) seeks a dynamic and experienced school leader to partner with the Head of School in leading day-to-day operations and advancing a strategic vision for joyful, rigorous learning. Because this is a confidential search, the school’s name and location will be disclosed only to candidates selected for interviews. The successful hire may begin as early as the 2025–2026 academic year to ensure a seamless transition into full responsibilities for 2026–2027.
Key Responsibilities
- Operational Leadership – Oversee daily programs, schedules, and logistics while cultivating a safe, inclusive, and mission-aligned school culture.
- Instructional Collaboration – Coach and support faculty; lead professional growth initiatives and curricular review across PK–8.
- Student Experience – Partner with division leaders to ensure consistent academic and socio-emotional support for approximately 250 students.
- Community Engagement – Serve as a visible, empathetic ambassador to parents, trustees, and external partners.
- Strategic Partnership – Act as a thought-partner to the Head of School on budgeting, enrollment management, accreditation, and long-term planning.
- Acting Head Coverage – Assume Head of School duties in their absence.
Ideal Qualifications
- At least 5 years of experience as a classroom educator in a PK–12 setting.
- Minimum of 5 years in school leadership (Division Head/Principal or Associate/Assistant Head of School).
- Bachelor’s degree in education or a related field required; Master’s degree in educational leadership or administration strongly preferred.
- Demonstrated success in PK–8 environments, with hands-on experience managing faculty, operations, and student programs.
- Proven ability to lead change with clarity, compassion, and data-informed decision-making.
- Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging that aligns with CalWest’s Deep values—Diverse, Empathetic, Engaged, Personalized.
- Willingness to relocate – the search committee will consider candidates open to placement anywhere in the United States (relocation support is anticipated).
Compensation & Benefits
- Salary range: $100,000 – $130,000, commensurate with experience.
- A comprehensive benefits package, including relocation assistance, will be provided.
Search Timeline & Process
- Application review opens: Immediately (Early applications encouraged)
- Rolling video interviews with CalWest Aug 2025 → until position filled (School remains confidential)
- School-based interviews Invitations extended on a rolling basis (School identity disclosed at this stage)
- Offer & transition plan Target Fall 2025 Start date no later than Summer 2026
The search will remain open until a hire is made.
How to Apply
- Submit a cover letter, résumé, and statement of educational leadership philosophy, and three references to CalWest via the application portal.
- Qualified candidates will participate in an initial conversation with a member of the CalWest Search Team.
- References will be contacted only after mutual interest is established.
CalWest Educators Placement is the exclusive search partner for this position. All inquiries, nominations, and applications must be directed to CalWest; contacting the school directly may disqualify a candidate.
CalWest Educators Placement and our partner schools are equal opportunity employers and value a diverse workforce.
