Stem Academy Director

Rancho Christian School 

Job Description: S²TEM Academy Director

Title: S²tem Academy Director

Supervisor: HS/MS Principal

Classification: Non-exempt

Description:  The S²TEM Academy Director provides vision, leadership, and oversight for the development of a regionally recognized science and STEM program serving students from kindergarten through 12th grade. The Director is responsible for providing instruction, promoting student progress, and passionately delivering STEM education while maintaining a safe and positive classroom environment. This role is focused on creating engaging academic opportunities that encourage students to explore the natural world, deepen their understanding of science and faith, and discover their future potential within the field.

As the program grows in participation and impact, the position will increasingly expand into broader administrative leadership, with reduced teaching responsibilities and greater emphasis on program development, oversight, and strategic growth, including the addition of support staff and resources.

Spiritual Qualifications:

• Demonstrates a passion for Christ and his Kingdom through personal spiritual discipline and public ministry.
• Seeks to grow in that relationship with Christ through personal spiritual discipline, education, accountability and service to his Kingdom.
• Candidates must demonstrate confidence in their ability to integrate biblical knowledge and a Christian worldview throughout STEM instruction.

 Professional Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Education from an accredited university or college
• Master's degree and/or California teaching credential preferred in mathematics or STEM
• Ability to effectively differentiate instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners.
• Strong classroom management and student engagement skills.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with faculty, administration, parents, and community partners.
• Strong technology skills and familiarity with instructional technology integration.
• Ability to comply with both written and oral instructions
• Self-motivated
• Obtain certificate of negative result for TB screening prior to hire
• Cleared live scan background check

Areas of Responsibility:

• Develop a S²TEM Academy as an academic pathway for the 2026-27 school year by consolidating STEM programs, clubs, and courses into a brandable academy 6-12th grade. 
• Collaborate with elementary, middle school, and high school leadership teams to create a cohesive and vertically aligned STEM pathway.
• Coordinate with Marketing and Communications Department to promote STEM Academy initiatives.
• Coordinate with guidance counselors and leadership on class offerings.
• Develop and oversee a middle school robotics program to ensure vertical alignment throughout Rancho Christian School (First Lego League).
• Develop and oversee middle school clubs- Science Olympiad and/or Riverside STEM Fair
• Coordinate STEM clubs, enrichment opportunities, and extracurricular activities.
• Lead competitive robotics for high school team.
• Administrative tasks for STEM programs and competitions. 
• Teach 4 sections of mathematics in secondary school.
  • Ability to effectively differentiate instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners.
  • Strong classroom management and student engagement skills.
  • Plan and deliver engaging, standards-based instruction aligned with California state stands and Rancho Christian's school curriculum and learning outcomes.
  • Maintain high expectations for student achievement and growth.
  • Utilitize assessment data to monitor progress and guide instruction.Establish a classroom environment that promotes academic excellence, student engagement and Christlike character
• Research emerging trends and best practices in STEM education and implement innovative instructional approaches.
• Maintain and oversee STEM Academy budgets, resources, equipment, and instructional materials.

Areas of Expected Proficiencies:  

• Passionately and effectively teach STEM – Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics
• Develop an engaging and exciting STEM program for grades K-6.
• Maintain classroom control that fosters a safe, positive environment for all students and staff in accordance with school, state and all applicable laws and regulations
• Effectively engage students, caring for them through relational ministry while simultaneously taking responsibility for upholding high academic standards, helping students achieve their maximum potential
• Communicate, engage and collaborate with fellow faculty and staff in a collegial and supportive manner
• Demonstrate professional practices in teaching in alignment with Rancho guidelines and policies.

Other Expectations:

• Actively and collaboratively participate as a member of the school faculty
• Keep phone and email communications responsive
• Perform all other duties as assigned

Required Education:
- Bachelor's degree in Education, Educational Administration, or a related field is required.
- A Master's degree in Education or a related discipline is preferred.

Required Experience:
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in educational administration or a similar leadership role within an educational institution.
- Proven track record of successfully managing and leading educational programs, preferably in a STEM-focused environment.
- Experience in curriculum development and implementation, particularly in STEM education.
- Experience working within a faith-based organization or understanding of integrating faith with education is advantageous.

Required Skills and Abilities:
- Strong leadership and organizational skills with the ability to inspire and manage a team effectively.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of engaging with students, parents, staff, and the broader community.
- Demonstrated ability to develop and implement strategic plans and initiatives to enhance educational programs.
- Proficiency in budget management and resource allocation to support educational objectives.
- Ability to foster a collaborative and inclusive environment that supports diverse learning needs.
- Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make informed decisions under pressure.
- Familiarity with current educational technologies and their application in a classroom setting.