Chief Academic Officer Job

Under the direction of the Superintendent, the Chief Academic Officer (CAO) serves as the instructional leader of GPS and is responsible for the academic success of the network. The Chief Academic Officer will create, communicate, and execute the academic vision of GPS. This involves developing and implementing both short-term and long-term plans for the GPS network and with individual school leadership teams. The CAO is also responsible for overseeing organization-wide professional learning experiences and ensures all academic and student services (i.e. mental health, counseling, special education) are aligned to support student achievement and are in compliance with federal and state law. The CAO leads the effort to provide the highest quality programs and services and the achievement of the mission and vision for Grow Public Schools.

The CAO will be instrumental in leading the growth of the network over the next several years, while maintaining and accelerating high-quality programs and student achievement across the GPS network. The Chief Academic Officer will be part of a Cabinet team consisting of the Superintendent, Chief Business Officer, and Chief of Staff. S/he will serve as a principal manager, providing coaching and collaboration to each school leader, as well as having direct oversight of the Director of Learning and Innovation and the Director of Educational Programs.

Qualities and Competencies:

~ Strong background in standards-based TK-8 curriculum development and personalized learning models. Ability to implement project-based, inquiry-driven, or competency-based learning.
~ Deep understanding of early literacy and numeracy strategies critical for elementary student success.
~ Detailed knowledge of instructional technology, Common Core State Standards (CCSS), Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), and innovative teaching practices.
~ Proven success leading strategic educational activities, such as developing and delivering new curriculum, pedagogy, professional development, and assessments which led to academic growth, preferably in a charter school setting.
~ Strong understanding of charter school laws, state compliance requirements, and accreditation processes.
~ Experience navigating funding models, including per-pupil funding, grants, and philanthropic partnerships.
~ Ability to ensure accountability in governance and academic performance to meet charter renewal standards.
~ Ability to work well with and develop strong working relationships with a variety of school stakeholders: students, staff, parents, administrators, and Boards of Directors.
~ Skilled mentor, adept in developing teachers and school leaders.
~ In-depth knowledge of education code, federal and state laws, codes, regulations, and requirements.
Knowledge of funding sources for educational programs and the related regulations, controls, and reporting procedures.
~ Professional experience integrating technology into academic disciplines.

At Grow Public Schools (GPS), our mission is fueled by a need for educational equity and a belief in the transformative power of academic excellence and wellness. We believe education and wellness are fundamental pillars for success and their harmonious integration paves the way for brilliant and vibrant futures. Founded by the Grimm Family Education Foundation in August 2011, Grow Public Schools is committed to underserved communities in, and building a brighter future for, Kern County, California. Grow Public Schools operates Grow Academy Arvin, and Grow Academy Shafter, both TK-8 schools, serving over 1,600 students with a plan to open two additional schools to serve a total of 3,200 students.