SY 26 - 27 Assistant Principal of Operations

About AscendAscend is Brooklyn’s premier K–12 public charter network, committed to graduating high-achieving students who have access to boundless choice in their futures—not only through college acceptance, but through meaningful preparation for career readiness and thriving adult lives.Across our schools, we pair rigorous academics with strong systems, supportive adult culture, and a deep belief in students’ brilliance and potential. Our work is grounded in the understanding that preparing students for long-term success requires excellence in instruction, intentional culture-building, and disciplined execution at every level of the organization.At Ascend, adults are held to high standards because our students deserve nothing less. How we teach, lead, collaborate, and make decisions every day directly shapes the opportunities our students will have tomorrow.Join us in shaping learning environments where curiosity is nurtured, excellence is the norm, and every student is prepared for a lifetime of boundless choice.About the RoleThe Assistant Principal of Operations (APO) is a school‑based leader responsible for building and sustaining exceptional operational systems that enable teaching and learning to thrive. In close partnership with the Principal, the APO sets the bar for operational excellence, ensuring that the school runs smoothly, safely, and efficiently every day.The APO oversees all non‑academic operations, including facilities, compliance, budgeting, school operations staff management, and day‑to‑day systems execution. This role requires strong judgment, urgency, attention to detail, and the ability to manage competing priorities in a fast‑paced school environment.APOs report directly to the Principal and receive coaching support from the Senior Director of Operations. As a core member of the school leadership team, the APO plays a critical role in shaping school culture, supporting staff and students, and ensuring financial and operational sustainability.Key ResponsibilitiesOperational Management & SystemsDesign, implement, and continuously improve systems and processes that support daily operations and long‑term school goals.Own and execute all operational workflows, ensuring smooth, predictable, and high‑quality day‑to‑day functioning of the school.Ensure compliance with health, safety, emergency preparedness, and state and federal regulations.Oversee facilities management, space usage, and vendor relationships.Strategic Leadership & Continuous ImprovementPartner with the Principal to lead the school’s operational vision and execution.Use data to evaluate operational effectiveness and drive continuous improvement.Anticipate risks, identify root causes, and proactively address operational challenges.Support school‑wide initiatives that advance student outcomes and staff effectiveness.School Culture & CommunityContribute to a positive, inclusive school culture that reflects Ascend’s values and high expectations.Plan and manage events and systems that strengthen relationships with students, families, and staff.Foster a welcoming, joyful, and well‑run school environment for all stakeholders.People Leadership & Team DevelopmentRecruit, manage, coach, and develop school‑based operations staff.Set clear expectations, provide actionable feedback, and hold team members accountable for results.Build strong, collaborative teams grounded in trust, clarity, and continuous growth.Equity & InclusionEmbed diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti‑racism principles into operational systems and decision‑making.Build staff capacity to lead operations with an equity‑centered mindset.Cross‑Functional CollaborationPartner closely with network operations, finance, HR, and academic teams.Ensure alignment between school‑level execution and network‑wide systems and priorities.Staff and Reporting RelationshipsReports directly to the School Principal.Receives coaching support from the Senior Director of Operations.Supervises school‑based operations staff.QualificationsA bachelor's degree, with an advanced degree (MPA, MBA, or equivalent experience) is preferredThree to five years of professional experience, preferably in an educational organization or a schoolDemonstrated success managing complex systems and leading teams.Skills and TraitsExcellent written and verbal communication skills.Deep knowledge of school-based operations, including facilities, scheduling, compliance, and resource managementProven ability to design, execute, and refine systems that drive smooth daily operations and long-term school successStrong people management and coaching skills, with a clear focus on accountability and professional growthExcellent project management, organizational, and problem-solving skills in fast-paced environmentsDemonstrated ability to lead with a racial equity lens and embed DEI and anti-racist practices into operationsClear, effective communicator who collaborates well with school leaders, staff, families, and network partnersHigh level of ownership, adaptability, and follow-throughStrong alignment with Ascend’s mission, values, and commitment to educational equityStaff and Reporting RelationshipsThe Assistant Principal of Operations reports to the principal and supervises the operations staff. Network Directors of Operations (NDOs) have a dotted line coaching relationship with APOs.CompensationSalary Range: $90,000 - $115,000, determined based on experience and education level using an equitable compensation scale.This is a full-time, exempt position that offers a comprehensive benefits package including:Medical, dental, and vision insurance403(b) retirement plan with employer matchingGenerous paid time off and additional employee benefits