Head of School

ORGANIZATION

As part of the Philadelphia-based Freire Network, Freire Charter School Wilmington (FCSW) offers the close-knit feel and independent governance of a community-based school – led by its own Board – while benefiting from the stability and shared services of a centralized support office. Located in Wilmington, Delaware, FCSW is a small public charter high school committed to preparing students – many of whom have historically been underserved – for college success and full participation in civic life.

Grounded in the educational philosophy of Paulo Freire, the school centers relationships, student voice, critical thinking, and social justice as core drivers of learning and belonging.

Founded over a decade ago, FCSW serves students beginning in 8th grade through high school using a distinctive five-year college preparatory model designed to meet students where they are academically while building the persistence, skills, and confidence needed to succeed in college and beyond. As one of the only non-selective public charter high school options in Wilmington, Freire plays a critical role in the local education landscape.

Freire Wilmington is known for its close-knit, family-like culture, deeply caring educators, and strong student–staff relationships. The school operates in a beautiful, purpose-built facility, including a new gym, and benefits from support from a growing Freire network central office while maintaining meaningful autonomy at the school level.

To learn more about Freire Charter School Wilmington, please visit:(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

The Head of School serves as the instructional, cultural, and operational leader of Freire Charter School Wilmington. This is an opportunity for a hands‑on, student-centered school leader to lead a rigorous and demanding school while preserving the heart and humanity of a small, mission‑driven community.

• Believes deeply in educational equity, college access, and the transformative power of public education
• Brings an entrepreneurial mindset – energized by building systems, solving problems, and turning vision into action
• Leads with both empathy and resolve, balancing care for people with clear expectations and accountability
• Thrives in a high‑autonomy, “scrappy” environment that requires initiative, adaptability, and follow‑through
• Is highly visible with students, present and trusted with staff, and relentlessly focused on results
• Effectively challenges and supports teachers and staff through a culture of continuous improvement

The Head of School will be responsible for FCSW’s enrollment strategy, clarifying vision, strengthening academics, rebuilding trust, and translating good ideas into consistent practice. Success will require balancing strong relationships with firm expectations, and innovation with follow‑through.

Key Responsibilities of the Head of School include:

Student Enrollment Strategy, Family & Community Engagement

• Lead and execute a comprehensive student enrollment and retention strategy, with the goal of significantly increasing and sustaining student enrollment;
• Serve as the public face of the school to prospective families, current families, community partners, and the broader Wilmington and Delaware education and civic landscape;
• Build trust with families through consistent, transparent, and culturally responsive communication;
• Effectively recruit students by strengthening outreach, admissions processes, and the school’s value proposition;
• Cultivate strategic partnerships that expand student opportunity, enhance the school’s reputation, and support enrollment growth.

Academic & Instructional Leadership

• Lead the design and execution of a rigorous, coherent, and truly college‑preparatory academic program, with a particular focus on improving Math and ELA outcomes
• Strengthen curriculum alignment, support effective instruction, and ensure students build foundational skills while progressing toward grade‑level expectations
• Partner closely with Freire Network academic leaders and resources to leverage shared expertise, tools, and best practices in service of student achievement
• Provide meaningful opportunities for…