
Director of School Operations
The Organization
Prospect Schools is a high-performing, intentionally diverse (“diverse by design”) K-12 college preparatory charter network serving more than 2,700 students in seven (soon to be 9!) schools in Brooklyn. Prospect Schools models its curriculum on the renowned International Baccalaureate Program, a rigorous program that raises the level of academic responsibility for students while also preparing them to be global citizens.
Our experienced team is dedicated to our mission to prepare a diverse student body to have a positive impact on society and develop a lifelong passion for learning, and guided by our Core Values:
● Curiosity: Develop sound judgment and intellect by asking questions confidently and thinking critically
● Care: Support others by grounding every action in empathy while championing equity and inclusion
● Persistence: Grow and learn by solving problems with determination, creativity and tenacity
● Passion: Succeed by approaching challenges with excitement, enthusiasm and self-assurance
We have a vision to become, by 2030, the leading network of intentionally diverse schools where all students and educators can learn, work and thrive. Find out more about who we are and what we believe by spending a few minutes reading our 2024 Annual Report .
About the Role
Prospect Schools is seeking a collaborative, systems-minded, and equity-driven Director of School Operations (DSO) to ensure operational excellence at one of our schools. Reporting to the Senior Network Director of Operations and serving as a key member of the School Management Team (SMT), the DSO leads all non-instructional functions of the school.
The DSO is both a strategic partner to the Principal and a hands-on leader who manages operations staff, builds efficient systems, and ensures that the school runs smoothly every day. The ideal candidate is motivated by Prospect Schools’ mission, thrives in dynamic environments, and brings the leadership, judgment, and project management skills needed to deliver excellence for students, staff, and families.
Key Responsibilities
School Leadership
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Serve as a core member of the SMT, partnering with the Principal to make critical decisions.
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Analyze school-wide data to design systems that support instructional and cultural priorities.
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Collaborate with the Director of Student Services, teachers, and staff to foster positive school culture and student development.
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Manage, coach, and develop a team of operations professionals, ensuring high performance and continuous growth.
Operational Leadership
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Oversee all school operations, ensuring systems are efficient, equitable, and maximize student learning time.
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Manage facilities and vendor partnerships (custodial, security, etc.) to maintain a safe, welcoming, and functional school environment.
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Partner with the Principal and Network Finance Team to develop and monitor the school budget, ensuring accurate forecasting and responsible spending.
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Serve as the HR point of contact for school staff, including PTO, attendance tracking, and compliance with policies.
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Lead professional development for staff on operational systems and priorities.
Data & Accountability
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Establish and maintain strong systems for attendance, budget management, assessments, and compliance.
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Promote a culture of data-driven decision-making, ensuring systems are reviewed and refined regularly.
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Clarify staff roles and responsibilities, setting clear accountability structures to ensure follow-through.
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Provide regular operational and academic achievement updates to school and network leadership.
Candidate Requirements
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Deep alignment with Prospect Schools’ mission and values.
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Minimum of 5 years of operational experience, ideally in an educational or nonprofit environment.
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At least 3 years of leadership experience preferred, with a proven track record of managing people and projects.
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Strong project management skills with the ability to lead across multiple workstreams.
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Exceptional communication skills and the ability to build trust with colleagues, staff, and families.
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Adaptability and problem-solving skills to thrive in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
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Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred.
Compensation & Benefits
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Salary range: $117,000 – $129,146, based on skills and years of direct experience.
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Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
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Paid Time Off (PTO) and/or Paid Sick Time (PST), based on date of hire and weekly schedule.
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401(k) and Roth IRA with a 4% employer match (3-year vesting schedule).
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Flexible spending accounts, including Transit, Health Care, and Dependent Care options.
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Ancillary insurance, including Basic Life Insurance, AD&D, and Short/Long-Term Disability.
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Employee Assistance Program for free support services, from family care to mental health.
**The critical features of this role are described above but not all-encompassing.**
EEO and ADA Statement
Prospect Schools is an equal opportunity employer. We actively recruit, hire, and retain a diverse and inclusive staff. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, age, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, citizenship, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.
Prospect Schools is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at: careers@prospectschools.org.
The critical features of this job are described above; they may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons.