Chief Academic Officer (CAO)

The Company is seeking a Chief Academic Officer to lead instructional strategy and strengthen academic outcomes across a large public school system. The role oversees teaching and learning, student services, and school operations, aligning curriculum, assessment, enrichment, and college and career pathways with district priorities. Responsibilities include using data to drive continuous improvement, monitoring program effectiveness and regulatory compliance, and ensuring schools have high-quality professional development and support. The Chief Academic Officer will lead a large team, oversee academic budgets, advise executive leadership, and build effective partnerships with families, communities, and public stakeholders. Candidates should have at least 10 years of progressively responsible senior leadership experience in K–12 public education and a demonstrated record of improving student outcomes through data-informed decisions. Experience leading large teams and holding leaders accountable for results is required; experience in an urban, unionized school district is preferred. A master’s degree in education or a related field is required, while a doctoral degree is preferred. The role also calls for strong instructional expertise, strategic and operational leadership, effective communication, and a commitment to equity and public education. An administrator license in the relevant state, or eligibility to obtain one, is preferred.