Head of High School

Head of High School

Northwest Academy is a progressive, independent school located in downtown Portland, Oregon, serving students in grades 6-12. With a strong emphasis on arts integration, critical thinking, and experiential learning, we provide an innovative and dynamic educational environment that fosters curiosity, creativity, and collaboration.

Northwest Academy seeks a passionate and visionary Head of High School (High School Director) to provide leadership and administration for our high school program. A member of the Senior Leadership Team, the Head of High School is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations, faculty supervision, and program development while ensuring alignment with the school’s mission and core values. The ideal candidate will be a strategic and collaborative leader dedicated to student-centered learning, faculty mentorship, and a thriving school culture.

• Lead and oversee the strategic initiatives of the high school’s program and culture.
• Supervise high school faculty, Department Chairs, College Counselor, and the High School staff.
• Foster an inclusive and supportive environment for students, faculty, and families.
• Provide leadership in faculty recruitment, hiring, and professional development.
• Oversee faculty evaluations.
• Lead and manage student discipline, social/cultural issues, and behavioral interventions.
• Co‑lead annual and special projects/events (e.g., conferences, retention activities).
• Represent the high school at public events, conferences, and community engagements.
• Collaborate with the Head of Middle School to build a shared vision for a 6-12 program and shared supervision of cross‑divisional faculty.
• Collaborate with administrative staff to align school policies and goals.

• Master’s degree in education, administration, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of five years of leadership experience in an educational setting, preferably in a high school environment.
• Deep commitment to progressive education, arts integration, and experiential learning.
• Strong leadership, communication, and team‑building skills.
• Proven ability to lead faculty development, instructional coaching, and curriculum design.
• Experience in student support, behavior management, and restorative practices.

• 11‑month administrative position (August – June).
• Active involvement in school culture, including occasional evening and weekend commitments.
• Participation in student experiential activities, retreats, and professional development.
• The role requires movement across multiple buildings in downtown Portland.

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, résumé, and three professional references to careers
. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

For more information about Northwest Academy, visit www.nwacademy.org
.