Interim Head of School

Interim Head of School
Creative Minds International Public Charter School | Washington, D.C.

About the Role
Creative Minds International PCS is seeking an experienced and steady leader to serve as Interim Head of School for the 2025–26 school year. This is a pivotal moment for our PreK–8 charter school as we prepare for our 15-year charter renewal and lay the groundwork for long-term success.

The ideal candidate will be a confident and compassionate leader who can bring direction and calm to a period of transition. We are looking for someone who can provide stability while also moving the school forward—someone who listens closely, honors the values and history of our community, and builds trust through clear communication and consistent action. This leader should be ready to step in quickly, assess needs, and inspire cofidence among staff, families, and students.

Reporting directly to the Board of Trustees, the Interim Head of School is responsible for day-to-day management, academic oversight, culture-building, and partnership with school leaders and the broader community.

Key Responsibilities
Instructional Leadership

● Strengthen the school’s instructional vision and practices, with a focus on rigorous, hands-on learning in line with the International Curriculum.
● Ensure strong academic outcomes for all students, with targeted strategies for English Learners and students with disabilities.
● Use data to drive decisions and continuously improve teaching and learning.
● Support and supervise school leaders and instructional staff to build excellence across classrooms.
● Lead the development, implementation, and evaluation of the school’s curriculum, assessment systems, and professional development.

Culture and Community

● Build a school culture rooted in trust, high expectations, joy, and inclusion—for students, staff, and families.
● Foster strong relationships with families and serve as a visible leader in the school community.
● Strengthen staff morale and retention by supporting adult learning, collaboration, and recognition.
● Act as the school’s chief spokesperson and advocate with key partners, including the
D.C. charter community.
● Oversee communications with the broader DC community to improve public perception of CMI.

Organizational Management

● Manage and support the senior leadership team.
● Oversee daily school operations and ensure effective coordination between instruction, operations, and compliance.
● Recruit, develop, and retain high-quality staff. Lead hiring processes and performance management.
● Create systems and routines that support a safe, efficient, and supportive learning environment.

Governance and Accountability

● Partner closely with the Board of Trustees to set priorities and ensure continuity during the interim year.
● Lead the school’s preparation for its 15-year charter renewal in 2026, ensuring full compliance with legal and accountability requirements.
● Keep the Board regularly informed on progress, challenges, and opportunities.
● Lay the groundwork for a smooth transition to a permanent Head of School.

Finance and Development

● Collaborate with the COO and Board Finance Committee to develop and manage the annual $17 million budget.
● Oversee enrollment team and set goals and benchmarks for increased enrollment in school year 26-27.
● Ensure compliance with local and federal requirements, including charter school accountability standards.
● Provide support for fundraising and development efforts in a shifting local and national landscape.

Desired Qualifications
● Master’s degree in Education, Educational Leadership, or a related field preferred.
● At least 10 years of progressively responsible leadership experience in schools, culminating in a senior leadership position (Head of School or Executive Director experience preferred).
● Proven ability to lead school turnaround or significant change initiatives.
● Deep knowledge of instructional design, special education, and English Learner supports.
● Experience building and sustaining strong school cultures.
● Calm, steady leadership style with excellent communication skills and a focus on relationship-building.
● Ability to step into a new environment, assess needs quickly, and take action while building trust.
● Excellent communicator with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders.
● Experience leading an urban school serving a diverse population of learners, staff, and families.
● Commitment to equity, inclusion, and the success of every student.

Physical Requirements:

The position may require standing, walking, sitting, using hands and fingers to operate a computer and other office equipment, and talking and hearing in person and over the phone. This position may require occasional lifting and carrying of objects weighing up to 25 pounds, as well as reaching to access files and equipment. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EEO Statement:

CMI does not discriminate against, or tolerate discrimination against, employees or applicants for employment on any legally-recognized basis or protected class including, but not limited to, actual or perceived race, color, national origin, immigration status (except as necessary to comply with federal, DC, state, or local law), religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, lactation and related medical conditions), age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, gender (including gender identity or expression), marital status (including domestic partnership status), genetic information, political affiliation, pregnancy, family responsibilities, personal appearance, veteran status, uniform service member status, status of being unemployed, status of victim, a survivor of domestic violence, sexual offense or stalking, matriculation or any other protected class under federal, state, DC, or local law.

Salary and Benefits

Annual Salary $175,000-$215,000. Competitive benefits package including healthcare, annual leave package, tuition reimbursement, free parking, 401(k) and 529 plans.

To Apply
Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to [email protected] by May 23rd, 2025 outlining their qualifications and interest in the role.