Founding Headmaster / Principal

The role: The Founding Headmaster / Principal will serve as Oxford's head of school and chief academic and administrative officer. Reporting directly to the Board of Trustees, this leader will guide Oxford through the pre-opening period, the school launch, and daily operation. The position requires the ability to recruit and develop teachers, establish a serious school culture, build operating systems, earn the confidence of families, and prepare the school to meet the obligations of a Pennsylvania public charter school. The first measure of success will be a disciplined, fully prepared opening in fall 2028. After opening, the Founding Headmaster / Principal will be accountable for the quality of instruction, the strength of the faculty, student conduct and formation, daily operations, regulatory compliance, and the responsible use of public and private resources.

Core responsibilities: Build and lead a mission-aligned founding faculty and staff. Put Oxford's K-6 classical academic program into daily practice with clear expectations for curriculum, instruction, student work, and teacher development. Establish orderly classrooms and school routines grounded in attention, diligence, respect, self-government, and responsibility. Work with the board and qualified advisers on authorizer follow-up, staffing, facilities, financial controls, policies, safety, technology, transportation, food service, and opening operations. Develop compliant, effective services for students with disabilities and English learners while preserving access to the curriculum and high expectations. Support enrollment, family orientation, community engagement, and clear public communication about the school's mission. Manage the approved budget and provide the board with accurate reports on academics, staffing, enrollment, finances, compliance, and readiness. Represent the school before families, community organizations, the authorizer, public agencies, and prospective supporters. Prepare for the addition of one grade each year without sacrificing academic quality, school culture, or financial discipline.

Candidate profile: Successful teaching experience and the ability to lead, coach, and evaluate adults. A substantial grounding in the liberal arts and a serious commitment to classical education. The judgment and discipline required to establish systems where none yet exist. Strong organizational and financial ability, including priority setting, budgeting, delegation, and follow-through. Clear writing, public speaking, and the ability to explain the school's mission to families from varied backgrounds. Integrity, humility, steadiness under pressure, and the courage to maintain standards. Experience establishing a school, launching a major program, or leading a growing organization is especially valuable. Experience with charter schools, special education, or Pennsylvania public-school requirements is valuable. An advanced degree in education, educational leadership, the liberal arts, or a related field is preferred. Fluency in Spanish is a plus. Application Submit the following to info@oxfordclassicalacademy.org with the subject line Founding Headmaster / Principal Application:1. A letter explaining your interest in Oxford and your qualifications for the founding assignment.2. A current resume or curriculum vitae.3. A brief statement explaining your understanding of classical education and how you would lead a founding public charter school. Professional references will be requested during the selection process. Oxford Classical Charter School is an equal opportunity employer.