Desired Start Date: Summer 2025

Introduction to Ascent Classical Academies

At Ascent Classical Academies, our foundational philosophy is rooted in the comprehensive cultivation of the individual, encompassing both the intellect and character within a framework of timeless virtues. Our ethos embodies our dedication to fostering a sense of wonder and the relentless pursuit of wisdom. This philosophy permeates every aspect of our institution, from our rigorous academic curriculum to the harmonious structure of our daily interactions and celebratory traditions.

Ascent Classical Academies embarks on a noble quest, providing our students a well-rounded American classical education and guiding them through an enriching exploration of the Great Books, advanced studies in mathematics and sciences, and the intricacies of Latin language. We also encourage active involvement with the wider community, stewardship of the natural world, immersion in the fine arts, and participation in a variety of extracurricular clubs and athletic competitions. Beyond academic rigor, we are committed to nurturing a transformative and vibrant school culture characterized by joy, mutual respect, and profound engagement.

We are a fellowship of scholars and explorers, united in our quest for what is truly noble, inviting our students to join us in a life pursuing the True, Good, and Beautiful, and the fulfillment of human potential. An education at Ascent Classical Academies extends beyond mere preparation for college and career; it is an entreaty to embrace the most enriched life imaginable - preparing our students to flourish in life and to be good citizens.

Our Core Virtues

These are the cornerstone of what we strive to develop in our students, which are:

• Courage
• Moderation
• Justice
• Responsibility
• Prudence
• Friendship
• Wonder

Ascent Hiring Philosophy

In alignment with our mission and vision, Ascent Classical Academies seeks individuals who are not only aligned with our core virtues but also possess deep subject matter expertise, strength of character, a love for learning, and a commitment to their professional and personal growth. We value humility, the pursuit of excellence, self-discipline, the receptivity to coaching, practical wisdom, and a strong aptitude for engaging with students. Leadership in the classroom, a collaborative spirit, a robust work ethic, and an enthusiastic, positive attitude are the hallmarks of our team members.

• Masters Degree (preferred)
• SC Teaching Certificate in special education
• Campus leadership experience in Special Education (two years)
• Three or more years of relevant experience including familiarity with special education laws and regulations
• After offer is accepted, satisfactory background check as required by state law and the South Carolina Department of Education
• Dedication to the value of a rigorous liberal arts education
• Loyalty to the school and ACA’s mission and vision
• Commitment to model moral character in line with the school’s Core Virtues and the pursuit of the Good, True, and Beautiful
• Adherence to all ACA policies, including but not limited to the Employee Handbook, Family Handbook, and all applicable school and board policies

Position Specifics

The student services director leads a team comprising special education teachers, paraprofessionals, and special services providers to serve K-12 students across special education and general education populations who require universal, targeted, and intensive intervention. The successful candidate will have the knowledge, skills, and commitment needed to provide direct and indirect services that help students and youth succeed academically, socially, behaviorally and emotionally, as well as the understanding and empathy necessary for working with students and their families. The successful candidate will have knowledge of special education students’ needs within general education and special education settings, ensure the proper services and support for students who need supplemental programming, and understand compliance with state and federal laws.

Duties and Responsibilities

The Student Services Director is responsible for modeling, implementing, and continuously improving in the following areas and scope of work:

• Oversee the education of students with IEPs, 504 Plans, ELLs, ALPs, READ Plans or are in MTSS consistent with Ascent Classical Academies’ content-rich curriculum
• Assist and supervise general education teachers to meet individual educational goals for students with IEPs, 504 Plans, ELLs, ALPs, READ Plans, or who are in MTSS
• Ensure compliance with state and federal laws pertaining to student services programming
• Collaborative work with the headmaster to recruit and hire the best student services staff for positions that will meet the individual needs of students
• Coordination with outside providers including itinerant services with approval by ACA and the Governing Board, to ensure services align with student needs
• Management and monitoring of progress tracking within the school information system
• Supervision of paraprofessionals and student services staff to pursue excellence, the Core Virtues, and professionalism at all times
• Coordination of intervention support for general education students prior to potential assessment, as needed
• Management and monitoring of student documentation within the school information system
• Engage in effective communication with parents and teachers
• Appropriately facilitate formal student meetings with parents or other attendees
• Assess and provide research-based intervention to students with a suspected learning disability
• Work collaboratively to design formal educational plans for students that support academic growth and positive social interactions for learning to promote educational access
• Set budget priorities for the Student Services Department and have general knowledge of the Department’s fiscal status
• Oversee and ensure accurate reporting of students with specialized programming
• Close coordination with the enrollment coordinator regarding services for incoming students
• Educate school faculty and staff regarding student services programming, including by preparing and presenting written and oral information
• Maintain academic integrity and mission alignment in modifications and accommodations for students in specialized programming
• Maintain working knowledge and educate staff as needed regarding IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) and ADA (American Disability Act), and other applicable state laws or regulations
• Attend special school events (e.g., information sessions, concerts, plays, presentations)
• Attend all staff meetings and professional development opportunities
• Support and enforce the school dress and behavior codes and make reasonable efforts to promote the orderly behavior of all students
• Evaluate and document the student’s daily work, keep gradebook updated, monitor and inform parents of any deficiencies, and prepare the grade reports
• Attend and participate in review meetings with the Headmaster/designate
• Pursue excellence in teaching and continue to develop knowledge of the great ideas and works of Western Civilization
• Maintain regular, punctual attendance. Maintain professional appearance and adhere to relevant health and safety procedures

Benefits

• Employee-only coverage for group medical, dental, and vision plan; dependent coverage available
• Health savings account with employee contributions
• Short- and long-term disability and life insurance plans
• Retirement investment account with employer match
• Voluntary benefit options

Ascent Classical Academies seeks faculty members with strong content backgrounds and does not require a teaching license.

Please contact Careers@AscentClassical.org with any additional questions.

Visit https://ascentclassical.org/careers for more information on Ascent Classical Academies’ mission and vision, benefits, and to submit an application. Applications will require a cover letter, unofficial transcripts, and a 400-600 word educational philosophy statement relevant to the value of a liberal, classical education.