Position Details
Position Name: Director, Academics - Missouri (MO)
Status: Salaried, Exempt
Type: Regular, Full-Time (12)
School Year (if applicable): 2025-2026
Estimated Time to Start: 5-6 Weeks
Position Overview
The Director of Academics will be responsible for establishing and guiding the academic vision, instructional leadership, and curriculum implementation for our Missouri-based virtual education programs. This role is critical in ensuring high-quality instruction, fostering student achievement, and maintaining compliance with Missouri state educational regulations. The Director of Academics will work collaboratively with school leadership, teachers, and external stakeholders to cultivate a data-informed, student-centered learning environment.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
- Academic Leadership & Strategy
- Develop and implement a strategic academic vision that aligns with Stellar Virtual's mission and Missouri state requirements.
- Lead the ongoing improvement of instructional programs to enhance student outcomes and engagement within a virtual setting.
- Oversee the selection, development, and alignment of curriculum with the Missouri Learning Standards.
- Instructional Support & Teacher Development
- Provide instructional leadership through mentoring, coaching, and supporting teachers and academic staff in a virtual environment.
- Direct professional development initiatives focused on effective virtual teaching methodologies, engagement strategies, and the utilization of educational technology.
- Evaluate instructional practices within the virtual classroom and provide targeted feedback to educators to continuously improve student performance.
- Student Achievement & Assessment
- Monitor student performance data and implement evidence-based strategies to support academic growth and success in the virtual learning environment.
- Oversee the administration of assessments, analyze data, and ensure the use of results to inform instructional practices and drive improvements.
- Ensure the effective implementation of intervention programs to support struggling learners and address achievement gaps within the virtual school.
- Compliance & Accreditation
- Ensure all academic programs adhere to relevant state, federal, and accreditation requirements specific to Missouri virtual education.
- Lead state reporting efforts and maintain accurate documentation for audits and accountability measures in Missouri.
- Stay current on Missouri education laws, policies, and best practices in virtual education.
- Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement
- Partner effectively with school leadership, families, and community organizations within Missouri to promote student success in the virtual setting.
- Collaborate closely with other departments, including student services, special education, and technology, to support the holistic development of virtual learners.
- Represent Stellar Virtual at relevant state and national education forums as needed.
Knowledge, Skills & Attributes
- Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in instructional leadership, curriculum development, or school administration, preferably within a virtual or blended learning environment.
- Demonstrated experience working in a K-12 virtual education setting.
- Missouri administrator certification or eligibility for certification.
- Strong background in instructional coaching and teacher professional development, particularly in online modalities.
- Proven track record of improving student academic outcomes in a K-12 setting.
- Comprehensive understanding of Missouri state education standards, curriculum frameworks, and virtual education best practices.
- Exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
- Proficiency in analyzing data to inform academic decision-making and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
- Excellent written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with educators, families, and stakeholders in a virtual environment.
- High level of proficiency with educational technology platforms, learning management systems (LMS), and other tools relevant to virtual instruction.
Education & Certification Requirements
- A bachelor’s degree in education or a related field is required.
- A master’s degree in education or educational leadership is highly preferred.
- An active Missouri Principal License or equivalent administrative certification is required.
- A valid Missouri teaching license with prior teaching experience in the state is preferred.