Head of Lower School

Sheridan School, an independent K-8 school in Washington, D.C., is seeking a Head of Lower School starting July 1, 2025.

Founded in 1927, Sheridan is a progressive school with no more than 230 students, a vibrant, engaged community, and a strong commitment to both equity and diversity. We are dedicated to advancing our practice of progressive education and delivering a rich curriculum that prepares our students to know, to challenge, and to achieve. We provide a learning culture that is curious, thoughtful, joyful, and just, and our professional culture is steeped in collaboration, respect, and eagerness to embrace new experiences and ideas.

Responsibilities of the Lower School Head include the following:

Partnering with the Assistant Head of School and Lower School faculty to review the arc of the academic program and update curriculum and pedagogy as necessary, ensuring alignment and programmatic cohesion across grades K through 4, and supporting teachers in their design of curriculum and instruction that are consistent with current best practices;
Furthering academic, programmatic, and community throughlines K-8, while maintaining and respecting the distinct identity of the Lower School;
Refining and deepening Sheridan’s curricular and co-curricular DEIJB programming in support of Lower School students, parents, and employees;
Working in partnership with the Assistant Head of School to recruit, hire, support, and retain exceptional faculty and staff;
Supporting Lower School educators in their practice, providing clear expectations, feedback, and avenues for growth;
Nurturing an even deeper sense of employee community and collaboration;
Shepherding Lower School students and their caregivers, furthering Sheridan’s student-centered, relational, and joyful culture.

Professional Qualifications:

Deep appreciation and affection for the joys of a K-8 community;
Experience as a classroom teacher who celebrates, nurtures, and delights in Lower School children;
An understanding of evolving best practices in curriculum, instruction, and assessment in the support of a progressive pedagogy with a strong diversity and social justice lens;
Personal and professional commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, social justice, and belonging and the requisite skills to support a diverse student body and faculty and to facilitate critical conversations in the design of ever-more inclusive culture, curriculum, and programs;
The ability to develop and articulate vision and strategy and the tactical skills to manage the systems and processes necessary to implement program growth;
Experience leading and managing adults through a partnership approach, supporting their growth and development.

Leadership Style:

A collaborative leadership style built on approachability, responsiveness, and transparent communication;
A strong sense of and confidence in one’s talents, with an understanding of how to step back to leverage and support the strengths of others, bringing people together in support of a shared goal;
The confidence and humility to advocate for new ideas, invite disagreement, and welcome feedback.

Personal Qualities:

Alignment with Sheridan’s mission and vision, including a fundamental belief in the joy of working with young children;
Exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate with inspiration and clarity across a wide range of stakeholders;
Eagerness to engage actively with students, faculty, staff, and parents and willingness to prioritize visibility amidst the demands of a busy schedule.

The search process for our next Head of Lower School is being managed by Carney Sandoe. Please click here to find the instructions for the application.

In compliance with the DC Wage Transparency Act, the estimated annual salary range for this position is between $127,500 and $145,000 based on experience. This is a 12-month position.

Sheridan School does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, religion, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family responsibilities, political affiliation, genetic information, veteran status, disability, or any other category protected by law.

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Head of Lower School