Job Title: Executive Director
Location: Wake County, North Carolina
Organization: Raleigh Oak Charter School
Application Deadline: August 30, 2025
Start Date: January 1, 2026
About Us
Raleigh Oak Charter School is a thriving K–8 public charter school guided by the principles of Waldorf education and dedicated to whole-child development, equity, and lifelong learning. Located in Wake County, North Carolina, we serve a diverse and growing community of families who value a rich, integrated curriculum that nurtures academic excellence, artistic expression, and social-emotional wellbeing.
We are seeking a dynamic and mission-aligned Executive Director to lead our school into its next chapter of growth and innovation. This is a unique opportunity to steward a vibrant learning community and deepen our impact as a leader in public Waldorf education.
Position Overview
The Executive Director serves as the chief executive officer of the school, reporting directly to the Board of Directors. This individual will be responsible for overall leadership, strategic direction, operational oversight, and fostering a collaborative and inclusive school culture aligned with Waldorf principles and public education standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Leadership & Vision:
- Champion the school’s mission and Public Waldorf educational philosophy.
- Lead strategic planning in partnership with the Board and leadership team.
- Cultivate a culture of respect, inclusion, creativity, and continuous improvement.
- Academic & Program Oversight:
- Support faculty in delivering a developmentally appropriate and rigorous curriculum.
- Ensure compliance with state standards and charter requirements.
- Promote ongoing professional development rooted in Waldorf pedagogy.
- Operations & Compliance:
- Oversee financial management, budgeting, and resource allocation.
- Ensure adherence to legal, regulatory, and charter school requirements.
- Supervise administrative staff and school operations.
- Community Engagement:
- Serve as a visible and approachable leader for families, staff, and students.
- Foster strong relationships with community partners, state agencies, and local organizations.
- Represent the school in public forums and at events.
- Governance:
- Act as liaison to the Board of Directors; prepare reports, updates, and strategic proposals.
- Support effective board development and governance practices.
Qualifications
Required:
- Master’s Degree in Education, Educational Leadership, Public Administration, or related field.
- Minimum 5 years of experience in a leadership role within a K–12 educational setting, preferably a public charter school.
- Demonstrated experience with Waldorf education.
- Proven track record of academic achievement improvement and/or successful school leadership.
- Experience with budget development and financial oversight for an organization of comparable size.
- Strong communication skills, including experience working collaboratively with Boards, faculty, families, and community stakeholders.
- Demonstrated experience in hiring, supervising, and evaluating staff and fostering a positive work environment.
Preferred:
- Training or significant experience in Waldorf Education, especially Public Waldorf.
- Experience in leading schools through major transitions, such as facility expansions, leadership changes, or charter renewals.
- Familiarity with restorative practices, social-emotional learning, and trauma-informed school leadership.
- Experience managing enrollment strategy, community outreach, and public relations.
- Grant writing and/or fund development experience.
- Demonstrated knowledge of North Carolina public charter school laws, compliance, and accountability frameworks.
- Licensure as a North Carolina School Administrator (or ability to obtain within 12 months, if applicable).
Compensation & Benefits
We offer a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement contributions, and professional development opportunities.
How to Apply
Please submit the following materials to edtaskforce@raleighoakcharter.org by August 30, 2025:
- Cover letter detailing your interest and qualifications
- Resume or CV
- Three professional references
- A statement on your understanding of Waldorf education and its relevance in a public charter school setting
