Assistant Director of Early Learning Center (ELC) and Lower School

Title of position: Assistant Director of Early Learning Center (ELC) and Lower School

Reports directly to: Director of ELC and Lower School

Department: Administration

Position type: Full-time Exempt, 12 month contract

Location: Antilles School, 7280 Frenchman Bay, St. Thomas, VI 00802

Compensation: Depends on experience

The Assistant Director of ELC and Lower School works closely with the Director of ELC and Lower School to ensure that the mission and vision of Antilles School are fully implemented. The Assistant Director is responsible for assisting in the day-to-day operations of the division and providing support to all school constituents. Key initiatives include supporting the professional growth of teaching faculty, early childhood and elementary program and curriculum development, student character development and accountability, and fostering partnerships with the parents and guardians of the students. Ideal candidates will demonstrate expertise and experience in early childhood and elementary education, leading pedagogical approaches, fostering engaging differentiated learning environments, and demonstrating an innovative approach to professional development. Exceptional interpersonal skills and a warm, child-centered attitude are essential.

Opportunity Highlights:

Collaborating with school leadership to meet the goals of the school’s current strategic plan.

Supporting an environment focused on inclusion and belonging and implementing practices that lead to a more equitable, restorative, and anti-biased school environment.

Enhancing the curricular program with best practices in child-centered instruction, scheduling, and innovative approaches to learning.

Working with faculty committed to teaching in an inquiry-based and developmentally appropriate setting.

Ensuring smooth transitions for students between early childhood and lower school, maximizing the benefits of the continuum of a Toddler–Grade 12 program.

Core Responsibilities

Supports student culture, access, and belonging and designs student life programs aligned with the school’s mission and vision.

Provides day-to-day support for faculty to cultivate engaging and reflective early learning and lower school environments.

Serves as a liaison between the school and families, fostering strong partnerships and ensuring ongoing communication.

Ensure discipline policies align with the school’s whole-child approach, emphasizing empathy, accountability, and personal responsibility.

Collaborate with teachers and staff to implement proactive discipline strategies that build a strong school culture.

Works closely with the Student Support Team and families to develop individualized behavioral and academic support plans when necessary.

Collaborates with the Director of Teaching and Learning to lead professional learning opportunities, develop professional learning resources, and keep faculty informed of relevant opportunities to ensure Antilles School remains a community of professional growth.

Oversees student life programming, assists in planning and presenting school assemblies and programs, and maintains a comprehensive calendar of school events.

Supports admission and re-enrollment activities for ELC and Lower School, collaborating with the Admissions Team to coordinate activities that introduce new students and families to Antilles School.

Attends ELC and Lower School community events, including classroom celebrations, performances, parent engagement events, and other extracurricular activities.

Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree in early childhood education, elementary education, educational leadership, or a related field preferred.

Multicultural competence with experience working effectively in a diverse school setting.

An educator who finds joy in working with young children.

Strong understanding of child development and research-based best practices in early childhood and elementary education.

Demonstrated success as a strategic thinker and effective manager with a systems approach to improvement and change.

Demonstrated ability to organize and inspire faculty, support professional development, and promote a positive school culture.

Supervisory and coaching experience with teachers, with the ability to provide constructive feedback and support professional growth.

Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to connect effectively with families, faculty, and students.

A commitment to the continued work of improving the school’s diversity, equity, and inclusion programs and practices.

Experience or demonstrated knowledge of appropriate resource programs and services for students with mild to moderate learning differences.

At least 5 years of teaching or relevant experience.

Antilles School is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our community. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and school needs. Antilles School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other protected status under federal, state, or local laws.

Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process due to a disability may contact us to request assistance. Information received related to accommodation will be treated confidentially.

This job posting is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the position and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Antilles School reserves the right to modify job descriptions or job postings at any time, as business needs may dictate.