Director of Academics

Director of Academics The Director of Academics is responsible for leading the implementation and continuous improvement of academic programs and services across the United Schools of Indianapolis (USI) network. This role ensures alignment to network priorities, Indiana state requirements, and the USI Instructional Vision by developing systems, coaching school leaders, and monitoring the effectiveness of instructional practices and student outcomes. Job Summary The Director of Academics serves as a strategic instructional leader and resource for principals, assistant principals, instructional coaches, and network office staff. This position is responsible for designing and implementing network-wide academic systems, supporting standards-based instruction, and ensuring that all academic programs and services achieve intended outcomes. Qualifications and Expertise The ideal candidate demonstrates: Deep knowledge of instructional best practices and the elements of effective teaching Expertise in standards-based curriculum, literacy instruction, and program evaluation Experience in strategic planning and building coherent network-wide systems Proven success coaching teachers, instructional coaches, and school leaders Ability to foster a strong professional learning community focused on student achievement Essential Functions Instructional Leadership and Systems Development Develop and implement network-wide instructional systems aligned to the USI Instructional Vision. Lead the codification of academic practices, policies, and procedures to ensure consistency across schools. Conduct instructional audits and walkthroughs to identify trends and support continuous improvement. Evaluate academic programs and initiatives to measure effectiveness and impact. School Leadership Support Supervise and coach principals and assistant principals in implementing instructional priorities. Support instructional coaches and school leaders through observation, feedback, and professional development. Facilitate meetings and collaborative processes to advance academic goals and monitor progress. Collaboration and Program Management Collaborate with school leaders and network office staff to identify academic needs and develop targeted supports. Partner with the Director of Student Services to ensure alignment between instructional and student support systems. Oversee program implementation to ensure compliance with network expectations and state regulations. Research current practices, instructional materials, and curriculum resources to inform strategic planning. Professional Learning Coordinate and deliver professional development designed to strengthen instructional practice and student outcomes. Model effective instructional strategies and provide targeted coaching to educators. Participate in workshops, seminars, and conferences to remain current on best practices and emerging trends. Key Responsibilities Related to Literacy Indiana-Aligned Literacy Curriculum and Instruction

• The USI Literacy Ecosystem Support implementation of evidence-based literacy curricula aligned to the Indiana Department of Education Literacy Framework and Indiana Academic Standards.

Ensure instruction reflects the five essential components of reading: phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. Strengthen explicit, systematic, and cumulative foundational literacy instruction. Universal Screening and Intervention Support schools in implementing state-required universal literacy screeners. Use screening data to guide instruction and intervention decisions. Partner with school teams to design and monitor Tier 2 and Tier 3 interventions, including supports for students with characteristics of dyslexia. Guide schools in progress monitoring and documentation to meet state expectations. Professional Learning and Capacity Building Design and facilitate professional learning aligned to Indiana literacy legislation and the science of reading. Data-Informed Continuous Improvement Analyze screening, diagnostic, progress-monitoring, and summative assessment data to identify trends and priorities. Support schools in integrating literacy data into school improvement planning. Collaborate with network leaders to refine tools and systems that promote fidelity and coherence. Serve as the network's literacy content expert and strategic thought partner. Work Environment & Schedule Full-time, 12-month position. Primarily based at the network office with frequent travel to school sites Qualifications Minimum of three years of district or charter network executive level experience with leading organizational initiatives

• Required . Prior experience as a school level administrator
• Required. Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction, Educational Leadership, Education Administration, or a related field
• Required.

Strong content knowledge across core academic areas, with particular expertise in literacy / coaching. Demonstrated success using data to drive results and improve instructional practice. Excellent organizational skills with strong attention to detail and follow-through. Effective written and verbal communication skills. Deep commitment to the mission and values of United Schools of Indianapolis.