Head of School
School Name: Agape Christian Academy
School City and State: Burton, Ohio
School Website: https://agapeca.com
Open Position Title: Head of school
Date to Remove Job Post: December 31, 2025
Job Description: Overview
Agape Christian Academy, located in Burton, Ohio, was founded in 2005 by eight families committed to non-denominational Christian education. Now serving 280 students from over 150 families across two campuses, Agape is entering a new chapter following the retirement of its founding president, Susan Gifford, at the end of the 2024/25 school year. The Agape Christian Board will seek a Head of School who will build on this legacy and lead the academy into a new era of Christ-centered excellence.
Qualifications and Core Competencies
1. Character
The Head of School must be above reproach, reflecting the biblical standards for spiritual leadership as aligned to Exodus 18:21; 1 Timothy 3:1–13; and Titus 1:6–9.
Character Essentials:
A life of integrity, humility, and self-control
A well-managed family life, modeling biblical priorities
A reputation for gentleness, hospitality, and peace
Not motivated by personal gain, but by service to Christ and others
A consistent example in word, conduct, and relationships—inside and outside the school
2. Convictions
The Head of School must be a person of deep biblical conviction, in total alignment with the Statement of Faith, with a proven commitment to sound doctrine and personal integrity, as outlined in the governing documents and emphasized in 2 Timothy 2:15; 2 Timothy 4:1–6; and Titus 2:15.
Doctrinal Essentials:
Unwavering belief in the inerrancy, infallibility, and authority of the Bible
Clear on justification by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone
High view of God’s sovereignty and Christ’s lordship
Commitment to the sufficiency of Scripture for all matters of life and godliness
Affirmation of the major tenets of the faith: the deity and humanity of Christ, His atoning work, bodily resurrection, the person and work of the Holy Spirit, and the literal return of Christ
Willingness to teach and lead with clarity on primary doctrines, while modeling humility and unity on secondary matters, recognizing and respecting students' unique and diverse theological backgrounds
Deep devotion to and engagement in the local church as their personal/primary means of discipleship and accountability
Doctrinal Alignment:
Literal six-day creation and historical accounts of Genesis 1–11
Literal-historical-grammatical method of biblical interpretation
Biblical clarity and courage on contemporary issues (marriage, sexuality, abortion, critical theory, etc.)
Gracious, winsome engagement with those who disagree, correcting with Scripture and gentleness (2 Timothy 2:24–26)
3. Commitment
The Head of School will serve as chief administrator of Agape Christian Academy, reporting to the Agape Christian Board, overseeing faculty and staff hiring, evaluation, and development, ensuring high-quality, Christ-centered education, fostering a culture that reflects Christ’s love and encourages spiritual growth, building strong relationships with families, churches, and community partners, and managing school finances, fundraising, and strategic planning. Roles and responsibilities include:
Spiritual Leadership
Marked with a distinctive attitude of servant leadership
Participate in staff devotions, prayer meetings, and chapel
Provide shepherding care for faculty, students, or families
Model Christlike leadership in meetings and decision-making
Academic Oversight & Campus Collaboration
Provides direct oversight to both campus principals to ensure:
Curriculum consistency
Faculty development
Discipline trends
Enrollment and family engagement
Campus-specific updates
Operational integrity
Conduct classroom walk-throughs and informal observations
Maintain a firsthand awareness of missional effectiveness through a consistent presence on both campuses
Ensure academic interventions and student support efforts
Staff & Faculty Development
Drive administrative or leadership team collaborations
Conduct one-on-one coaching check-ins with key leaders
Ensure faculty hiring, evaluation, and onboarding consistent with Agape standards
Construct positive healthy staff culture, while addressing staff morale, conflicts, or other concerns
Parent & Community Engagement
Sustain availability with parents regarding student or school-related matters
Partner with parent leadership groups
Maintain presence at student events, games, performances, and chapel programs
Establish a regular communication plan from the Head of School
Operational & Financial Management
Coordinate with finance and operations directors on budget oversight
Oversee admissions progress and advancement goals
Supervise campus facilities and safety procedures
Communicate with board chair as needed
Actively engage in donor development for fundraising in cooperation with the board
Strategic Planning & Vision
Evaluate mission alignment, school culture, and long-range planning
Plan leadership development, academic programs, or future initiatives
Prepare for board meetings, accreditation reviews, or public presentations
4. Educational and Certification Requirements
Minimum: Bachelor’s degree in education, educational leadership, or a related field
Preferred: Master’s degree in education, educational leadership, or a related field
Preferred: State teaching or accreditation, such as NCSA (National Christian School Association) or ACSI (Association of Christian Schools International).
5. Experience
Minimum: Three years of classroom teaching experience
Minimum: Two years of school administration or similar leadership experience
Preferred: Experience in a Christian school setting
6. Capacity
Team-building: recognizing and equipping others, fostering an environment where all can flourish
Strategic problem-solving: logical, level-headed, and creative in addressing complex challenges
Vision-casting: providing a compelling example and empowering others to embrace the mission
A shepherd’s heart, loving people and cultivating meaningful, trustworthy relationships
Strong communication: facilitating consensus, unity, and action
Decisive, action-oriented leadership: setting clear goals, communicating effectively, and taking urgent action
Practical intuition and resourcefulness: making wise decisions, even with incomplete information, and adjusting as needed
7. Competency
Maturity, skills, and experience to lead self, teams, and the institution
Distinguished expertise in Christian education, with a proven track record in school leadership or administration
Skills in fundraising, financial management, and experience with school growth or expansion
8. Chemistry and Cultural Fit
Relational and culturally attuned to the unique community of Eastern Geauga County and the broader Agape constituency
Ideally married with children, modeling a healthy family life and relating well to students of all ages
Moderate and careful in personal liberties, carrying oneself with respectability and discernment
Politically and culturally conservative, able to lead with wisdom and clarity through contemporary issues, always prioritizing biblical truth and love
Application Instructions: Interested candidates will submit:
Cover Letter: Articulating Christian faith and vision for Christian education
Resume: Detailing relevant experience and qualifications
Statement of Faith: Outlining personal beliefs and commitment to Christian education
References: Professional and pastoral references
Any other details to post: For more information or to apply: https://agapeca.com/head-of-school-application/
