Full-Time Head of School – Jewish Day School in Rockville
Job Description
Head of School
Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School
Rockville, MD
CESJDS is a community committed to diversity. CESJDS’ families compose a diverse geographic, economic and educational population. Central to CESJDS’ mission is a pluralistic School community that celebrates multiple Judaic backgrounds. The CESJDS experience promotes the development of each individual’s Jewish identity in a nurturing environment built on respect for one another, acceptance of differences, and belief that our diverse approaches to life are a statement of strength.
Situated on two campuses in Rockville, Maryland, a close-in suburb of Washington D.C., the Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School (CESJDS) enrolls 1,100 students in grades K-12. Its facilities are fitted with advanced educational technologies, two beautiful sanctuaries, well-resourced libraries, gymnasia that can each seat 700 people, athletic fields for older students and well-equipped playground spaces for the Lower School. Additionally, the School boasts a 350-seat auditorium completely equipped for dramatic productions, exceptional arts facilities including a pottery studio, photography studio, and recording studio, and state-of-the-art physical fitness facilities.
CESJDS is renowned for its exceptional faculty and staff who teach, mentor and motivate the students in the classroom, in the hallways and on the playground and playing fields. Students K – 12 benefit from an outstanding General Studies and Judaic curriculum that is driven by best practices, integrates the cutting edge educational technology, and places a premium on communication skills, creativity, critical thinking and collaboration that are at the heart of a 21st century education. The Hebrew immersion program generates a high level of fluency in a second language and creates a meaningful context for Jewish learning and ritual celebration. Recognizing that teachers alone cannot provide a full learning experience and sustaining memories, school life incorporates student-centered classrooms, school trips, educational simulations, student-driven ceremonies to mark special occasions, and outside speakers and activities, many of which draw on the unique opportunities existing in the Greater Washington area. The School nurtures in each student a strong Jewish identity and a love for Israel. The CESJDS educational journey culminates with the capstone experience of a 13-week trip to Eastern Europe and Israel following graduation in February of senior year. Accompanied on the trip by teachers, a professional historian, and local guides, the students participate in an organized program of study, volunteer work, sightseeing and outdoor activities. In addition to its traditional educational value, the trip helps to prepare the recent graduates for college life by offering an experience in quasi-independent living, the opportunity for social and emotional maturation, and immersion in a Hebrew-speaking environment that encourages the full realization of their Hebrew and Judaic education.
In the years before they graduate, Upper School students (7-12) pursue a rigorous program in which they are enrolled in eight to nine courses. In High School, these courses are offered at standard and accelerated levels to meet the needs of, and to create opportunities for success for, all members of a diverse student population. Each year, students receive numerous academic honors and recognition at the state and national levels. Recognizing that the sources of student success and motivation are varied, the School offers an extraordinarily rich and effective co-curricular program. This includes twelve varsity sports and 26 extracurricular clubs and organizations. The School’s athletic teams, publications, debate and mock trial teams, and a capella choir have all enjoyed success and recognition locally, nationally and even internationally. The school’s community service program gives concrete meaning to Tikkun Olam (making a difference to the world). CESJDS students are required to complete 80 hours of community service prior to graduation, but most students devote far more time than is required because of their passion and commitment to the organizations for which they volunteer.
The CESJDS experience well prepares students for their continuing education. CESJDS boasts a very robust and successful college counseling program. The college guidance staff carefully assists students in selecting colleges that best fit their academic and personal needs. CESJDS’ enviable college acceptance rate is complemented by the significant number of students each year who matriculate at the country’s most competitive Schools.
The Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School has launched a search for a Head of School to succeed Jonathan Cannon, who will step down at the end of the current academic year after having led the school since August 2001. For this position – a premier career opportunity in Jewish education – CESJDS is seeking an experienced academic leader who will build upon the school’s existing tradition of excellence, articulate a vision for the school’s next era that will advance the school’s mission, and provide the necessary inspiration and motivation necessary to achieve its goals.
How to Apply
The school has retained Wickenden Associates of Princeton, New Jersey, to conduct the search. To request a full position description, please contact Linda Knights, Senior Search Consultant, or James Wickenden, President, via searches@wickenden.com or by calling 609-683-1355.3891 total views, 1 today
