Director of Visual and Performing Arts

Our coeducational day school is seeking an experienced and passionate Director of Visual and Performing Arts to provide leadership across visual arts, instrumental and vocal music, theater, and debate. The ideal candidate will be an educator at heart with strong teaching experience, emotional intelligence, and a commitment to sharing effective instructional practices. Experience advancing arts education through both global and intercultural perspectives is especially valued, along with a commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive community where students learn to engage thoughtfully across differences. The Director will report to the Associate Head of School and collaborate closely with department chairs and division directors.

The Director will evaluate existing arts programs, identify opportunities for growth, and guide the development and alignment of PK–12 curricular and co-curricular offerings with the school’s mission. Responsibilities include coordinating performances and exhibitions, overseeing artist-in-residence programs and the Performing Arts Center Technical Director, designing department meetings, participating in school committees and scheduling decisions, and teaching or co-teaching when appropriate. The Director will also manage the department budget and create short- and long-term plans for maintaining and replacing instruments and equipment.

A major component of the position involves supporting and developing faculty. The Director will foster a strong sense of community by participating in concerts, performances, debate tournaments, and other events, while also planning professional development that helps teachers implement effective instructional and assessment practices. Working with administrators, the Director will assist with hiring, retention, coaching, and evaluation of arts faculty and oversee the selection of outside contractors, including music assistants, choreographers, debate coaches, and judges.

The successful candidate should hold an undergraduate degree in visual or performing arts, with an advanced degree strongly preferred. Candidates should have teaching experience and substantial professional experience in arts education or leadership, along with excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal abilities. This role requires knowledge of and dedication to continued learning across the school’s arts disciplines, as well as demonstrated skills in personnel coaching and evaluation and budget management. The Director will also partner with Admissions, Communications, and Advancement, manage arts-related gift accounts, and serve as a liaison with arts organizations.