Independent Schools of Saint Louis

Assistant Head of Lower School Mary Institute and Saint Louis Country Day School | MICDS

Position Start Date: 7/1/2026

About MICDS

MICDS has a rich and distinctive history spanning more than 150 years. A leader in independent education, MICDS is a college-prep, coeducational school for grades JK-12. Our mission is to help students discover their unique talents, preparing them for higher education and a life of purpose and service as engaged citizens in our ever-changing world.

Employee Benefits

MICDS offers employees a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits plan, including a generous 403(b) retirement plan where the School contributes 8% of salary with an employee’s 3% contribution; medical, dental and vision insurance; flexible spending accounts and long term care insurance; life insurance and short-term and long-term disability insurances; tuition benefit; paid leaves; access to a fitness center; and free lunch.

Application Process

For immediate consideration, complete our online application at https://www.micds.org/our-school/career-opportunities/ and upload a copy of your cover letter and resume. EOE.

JOB SUMMARY

The Assistant Head of Lower School works collaboratively with the Head of Lower School to ensure that Junior Kindergarten through 4th grade students experience a developmentally responsive, inclusive, and positive community environment. The ideal candidate brings strong leadership, exceptional interpersonal skills, and a demonstrated ability to support students, families, faculty, and staff in alignment with the School’s mission and values. This position is central to managing student culture, restorative behavior practices, family engagement, and operational leadership in the Lower School.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Provides leadership for all aspects of the Lower School student life experience, including belonging, wellness, behavior expectations, and community norms.
  • Coordinates and leads student behavior support systems, partnering with faculty and staff to implement developmentally appropriate restorative practices.
  • Provides feedback and guidance to teachers around instructional practices through classroom observations, collaborative reflection, and partnership with the Head of Lower School, supporting continuous growth and developmentally responsive teaching
  • Partners closely with the Head of Lower School to ensure continuity, coherence, and alignment of the Lower School academic program across grades, supporting shared expectations for curriculum, instruction, and assessment.
  • Collaborates with the Head of Lower School, grade-level teams, and learning specialists in the development, review, and refinement of Lower School report cards to ensure clarity, consistency, and alignment with program goals
  • In collaboration with the Lower School Learning Specialist, Director of Student Support Services, Counselor, and Head of Lower School, oversees student referral and support processes.
  • Serves as a clear and empathetic communication partner with families regarding student support, behavior expectations, and school practices.
  • Maintains a visible, accessible, and supportive presence throughout the Lower School community.
  • Partners with grade level leadership and the Student Support Team to support appropriate placements and transitions between grade levels.
  • Monitors student attendance and follows up with families as appropriate.
  • Manages and oversee new student welcomes and orientation programs.
  • Serves on grade level admission committees and assists with appropriate student placement processes.
  • Participates in divisional hiring processes and supports onboarding of new faculty and staff.
  • Attends relevant MICDS functions and acts as a representative and ambassador for the School.
  • Supports daily operations as needed, including morning and afternoon carpool procedures, scheduling, calendar coordination, and divisional events.
  • Serves as a thought partner to faculty and staff regarding consistent student life practices, behavior systems, and community norms.
  • Plans and facilitates meetings focused on student life, information-sharing, professional development, and community building.
  • Manages divisional projects and responsibilities as assigned.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor’s degree in a related area, Master’s degree preferred, and extensive experience as an educator
  • Exceptional leadership skills to work with and lead a team; administrative experience preferred
  • Excellent communication skills, both oral and written and demonstrated success as an advisor to senior leadership.
  • Ability to work in an environment that embraces a diverse community of students, educators, parents, and alums
  • Experience working in a one-to-one laptop environment or relevant technology skills
  • Must enjoy working and learning with children

 OTHER INFORMATION

  • A criminal history and background check is required and must be successfully completed prior to employment
  • May work at a desk and computer for extended periods of time
  • May work in varied outside weather conditions during special activities and events