Dean of Curriculum and Instruction

OVERVIEW:

Reporting to the Associate Head of School for Program, the Dean of Curriculum and Instruction plays a pivotal role in advancing Kent Denver’s academic vision across grades 6 through 12. Working closely with Division Heads and Department Chairs, this role ensures the coherence and innovation of the educational experience at Kent Denver in alignment with the school's Mission, Vision, and strategic goals. Additionally, the Dean of Curriculum and Instruction leads faculty professional development efforts to support the growth and development of our talented team of educators.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Leadership and Strategy

• Provide thought partnership, instructional coaching, and support to all classroom teachers, helping the School to deliver on its strategic goals for the academic program.

• With the support of the Middle School and Upper School Division Heads, lead the Department Chair team that is charged with overseeing Kent Denver’s academic program.

• With Division Heads, support the professional growth of the Department Chairs, providing necessary feedback to facilitate their development as administrative leaders.

• Collaborate with Department Chairs and other academic leaders to evaluate curriculum scope, sequence, and coherence across grades 6–12.

• Develop, communicate, and enforce academic policies (e.g., grading, homework, academic integrity) in collaboration with the Associate Head of School and Division Heads.

• Champion pedagogical innovation, interdisciplinary opportunities, and the integration of research-based instructional practices.

Faculty Support and Professional Development

• Support the recruitment, hiring, mentoring, and evaluation of faculty in collaboration with the Associate Head of School, Division Heads, Department Chairs, and Director of HR.

• Design and implement faculty professional development opportunities, workshops, and summer institutes that promote continuous growth.

• Conduct classroom observations and provide feedback to faculty on instructional practice, curriculum design, and assessment strategies in collaboration with Department Chairs and Division Heads.

Student Support and Learning

• Along with Division Heads, oversee academic policies, grading practices, and standards for student achievement.

• Collaborate with learning support, college counseling, and student life teams to ensure academic program accessibility and student success.

• Address academic concerns raised by students, parents, or faculty, working to resolve issues with clarity and fairness.

Community Engagement

• Promote the school’s academic program to prospective students, parents, and external stakeholders.

• Engage with parents and the broader community to ensure alignment of academic practices with the school’s values and mission.

• Develop communication strategies to update the school community on new academic programming and innovations.

Additional Responsibilities

• Participate in school events, workshops, and initiatives that support the school’s vision for innovative education.

• Teach one section of an academic discipline  and otherwise be engaged in the broader life of the school

• Perform other duties as assigned by the Head of School or Associate Head of School for Program.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master’s degree in education, curriculum & instruction, or related academic field.

• Minimum 7–10 years of teaching and academic leadership experience, preferably in an independent school setting.

• Demonstrated expertise in curriculum design, instructional leadership, and faculty development.

• Strong knowledge of adolescent development and the unique needs of students in grades 6–12.

• Proficiency in educational technology and learning management systems.

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.

• Collaborative leadership style with the ability to inspire trust and motivate faculty.

• Ability to think strategically while maintaining a practical, solution-oriented approach to challenges