State Role Title: Administrative and Professional Faculty
Position Type: Administrative & Professional (Non-teaching Faculty)
Position Status: Full-Time
FLSA Status: Exempt: Not Eligible for Overtime
College/Division: College of Education
Department: 400339 - College Lab School Startup
Pay Rate: Commensurate with Experience

GENERAL INFORMATION:

The JMU LAB School is seeking applications for an Assistant Director to assist the Executive Director in all aspects of the total LAB School program for JMU/Rockingham County Public Schools (RCPS) by providing educational leadership for students and staff consistent with initiative goals. JMU LAB School is committed to providing a research based interdisciplinary curriculum approach to learning for students at the secondary level with a focus on project-based and place-based learning.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Strong understanding of elementary/secondary education and special education practices.
• Knowledge of effective teaching methods and school leadership strategies.
• Ability to maintain high behavior standards and positive school culture.
• Skilled in delivering clear and engaging oral and written communication.
• Able to build positive, effective working relationships with students, staff, families, and the community.
• Minimum of master’s degree in educational leadership or related field.
• Professional Virginia educator’s license with endorsement in Administration/Supervision (preferred).
• Demonstrated record of significant leadership and teaching experience, preferably in the P-12 setting.
• Demonstrated knowledge/experience in working with higher education partners.
• Demonstrated commitment to improving school quality and teacher effectiveness.

• Observe and support classroom instruction and teaching practices in assigned areas.
• Help implement curriculum and educational goals aligned with school objectives.
• Create and manage systems to evaluate student progress and program effectiveness, recommending changes when needed.
• Guide teachers on instructional strategies, classroom management, and student behavior.
• Collaborate with staff to review and improve instructional methods and student outcomes.
• Support teachers and the Community Engagement Liaison with place based experiences and the use of local resources.
• Lead and support professional development and school improvement initiatives.
• Promote effective communication through meetings, committees, and one-on-one discussions.
• Foster a safe, respectful, and disciplined environment for students and staff.
• Enforce school and district policies in line with JMU, RCPS, and state education regulations.
• Support the Executive Director with staff hiring and personnel procedures.
• Plan and participate in staff training and development programs.
• Collaborate with the Executive Director and Community Engagement Liaison to build strong school-community partnerships:
• Communicate with families through programs, letters, phone calls, and in-person meetings.
• Encourage strong relationships between students, staff, families, and the wider community.
• Work together with others to find resources and support for a diverse student population.
• Model professionalism, ethics, and integrity in all interactions.
• Work cooperatively with administrators, staff, and community members to support the LAB School’s mission and goals.
• Attend and contribute to meetings with families and community groups.
• Build positive relationships with students, staff, and community members.
• Use data to inform decisions and improve practices.
• Identify and resolve problems effectively using strong decision-making skills.
• Maintain appropriate and respectful boundaries with students and serve as a positive role model.
• Demonstrate professional behavior and communication.
• Take on responsibilities outside the classroom as needed to support school functions.
• Always practice and promote equity and inclusion.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by the Executive Director, following school and district policies.