Overview
Oceanlight School (Oceanlight) is a bold new TK–8 public charter school proposed to launch in the Fall of 2026, rooted in a half-century legacy of hands-on, experiential, project-based education. The Founding Head of School will play a central role in shaping Oceanlight’s launch, growth, and long-term success. For our first site, the Head of School will also serve as the organization’s Executive Director, reporting directly to the Board of Directors and leading every aspect of the school.
We’re building a school where all students are seen, challenged, supported, and inspired. We are committed to reflecting the racial, cultural, socioeconomic, and learning diversity of North San Mateo County in the Bay Area, California.
This is a rare opportunity for a builder-leader who wants to leave a lasting legacy.
Responsibilities
Instructional and Academic Leadership
- Design and lead an environmentally-oriented, experiential, project-based, interdisciplinary academic program centered on student engagement, inquiry, and innovation
- Hire, coach, and inspire a mission-aligned, high-performing team of educators and staff
- Build a collaborative professional culture rooted in continuous learning and high expectations
- Ensure students of all backgrounds and learning profiles, including English learners (EL), students with disabilities (SPED), and socioeconomically disadvantaged students, are supported to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally
- Oversee assessment activities and data collection, including CAASPP, ELPAC, and internal progress monitoring
Culture and Family Partnership
Build a joyful, inclusive school culture emphasizing social-emotional learning and leadership for environmental stewardshipPartner with families to foster a vibrant, supportive “family of families”Serve as a visible, accessible leader who knows and champions every studentLead Student Study Team (SST) processes and ensure targeted supports are implemented effectivelyOrganizational and Operational Leadership
Oversee budgeting, financial management, and fundraising to ensure sustainability and growthManage school operations, admissions, facilities, technology, and complianceSupervise the school’s special education program in partnership with the SELPA, ensuring compliance with all federal and state regulationsImplement the campus safety plan and mandated child abuse reporting proceduresWork closely with Oceanlight’s back office provider on payroll, accounting, procurement, and state and federal reportingEffectively manage facility issues in terms of functionality, compliance, and alignment to the school’s unique educational programExternal Leadership and Advocacy
Represent Oceanlight with passion and professionalism to families, funders, districts, and community partnersBuild strong partnerships with local organizations, agencies, and schools to advance the missionServe as an advocate for environmental innovation, equity, and educational excellence at the local and regional levelEnsure compliance with the Brown Act, California Public Records Act, and other applicable education laws and regulationsOversee recruitment and retention of students to ensure full school enrollmentAttributes & Qualifications :
Required
Teaching credentials and at least five years of teaching experienceMaster’s degree in education or related field, or bachelor’s degree with substantial relevant leadership experienceValid or transferable administrative services credentialAt least three years of school leadership experienceExpertise in project-based learning, design thinking, or experiential educationExperience managing budgets and financial planning at an executive level with support from a back office firmStrong written and spoken communication skillsDemonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and cultural responsivenessFlexibility, resilience, and willingness to perform a wide range of tasks in a start-up environmentSuccessful completion of background check, LiveScan (fingerprinting), and TB clearanceStrongly Preferred
Five or more years of executive school leadership experienceExperience in and knowledge of environmental literacy and education in a school settingExperience launching or scaling a school or educational programFamiliarity with special education regulations and SELPA complianceKnowledge of California education law and regulations, including the Brown ActExperience working in diverse urban or suburban communitiesBilingual or multilingual abilitiesSuccess Metrics :
Achievement of enrollment, academic, and financial goalsStrong student outcomes across all subgroups, including EL and SPED studentsHigh levels of family engagement and satisfactionTeacher and staff retention and professional growthPositive, inclusive, and joyful school cultureCompliance with all state, federal, and local requirementsSuccessful launch and growth of Oceanlight School’s first siteAnnual salary between $130,000 and $160,000, depending on experience and qualificationsMedical benefits cafeteria style planContributions to STRS pension plan covered by the SchoolAccess to dental, vision, and 403(b) plan, covered by the employeeEstimated start date : January 2026
To Apply
Send your resume and a letter of interest explaining why you’re excited about leading Oceanlight School to hiring@oceanlightschool.org
Oceanlight is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a diverse, inclusive community where every voice is valued.
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