Frank Liu Jr. Academy for Music & Arts, Founding Director of Academics

About FlamaAt the Frank Liu Jr. Academy for Music & Arts (FLAMA)—a Pre-K through 8th grade open-enrollment charter school located in Houston's 2nd Ward—our mission is to inspire a joy for learning in every student through the fusion of academic rigor, cognitive science, and the arts. We believe the arts aren't just enrichment—they are essential pathways for learning.FLAMA's innovative model rests on three pillars and we are seeking educators with both a track record of success and a commitment to FLAMA's three design elements: (1) music and art education, (2) executive function skills development and (3) instructional methods rooted in the cognitive sciences. FLAMA faculty must demonstrate a strong interest in professional growth and a desire to have such learning guide their instructional methods.FLAMA will open to students in August of 2027 in a state-of-the-art campus located in Houston's revitalized East End, housed within the historic Folger's Coffee Factory. Designed to bring exceptional music, arts, and academically rigorous learning to students from Houston's 2nd, 3rd, and 5th Wards, FLAMA is rooted in Frank Liu Jr.'s visionary dream to create a school where creativity becomes a pathway to opportunity. Frank understood the transformative power of music and art to expand imagination, deepen learning, and strengthen community. His legacy shapes FLAMA's mission and guides the work of every educator who joins our founding team. To learn more visit www.flama.org.Position SummaryThe Founding Director of Academics serves as a key instructional leader responsible for ensuring excellence in teaching and learning across all Pre-K-8 academic programs. Working in close collaboration with the Superintendent, Director of Music & Arts, and instructional teams, this position advances FLAMA's mission to integrate academic rigor, music, and the arts within a nurturing environment that cultivates curiosity, technical fluency, and creative expression. The Founding Director of Academics drives the alignment of curriculum, assessment, and instructional practices across grade levels, ensuring that faculty development, student support systems, and community partnerships reflect FLAMA's commitment to the science of learning and arts-infused education.Areas Of Oversight ResponsibilitiesCurriculum Design & Instructional LeadershipCollaborates with the Superintendent on the design, selection, and implementation of high-quality curricula aligned with FLAMA's mission and state standardsIntegrates insights from cognitive science and educational research into instructional design and teacher practiceEnsures horizontal and vertical alignment of curriculum in ELA, mathematics, science, social studies, and enrichment coursesOversees integration of arts-based learning strategies in partnership with the Director of Music & ArtsLeads internal curriculum reviews to ensure academic rigor, cultural relevance, and cross- disciplinary connectionsTeacher Coaching and Professional GrowthObserves classroom instruction regularly and provides actionable feedback to facultyGuides teachers in applying data-driven practices, differentiated instruction, and the MTSS frameworkDesigns and implements ongoing professional learning aligned to campus goals and best practicesConducts formal performance evaluations, manages improvement plans, and fosters a growth-oriented faculty cultureModels instructional excellence by teaching as possible to remain grounded in classroom realitiesLeads professional learning that helps faculty connect arts integration with the science of learning and whole-child developmentData-Driven Instruction & Continuous ImprovementSynthesizes data from assessments, benchmarks, and formative tools to drive schoolwide improvementPromotes data literacy among teachers and transparency with students and familiesCollaborates with the Special Populations Coordinator to leverage data to inform interventions and support for at-risk, bilingual, and special education studentsCoordinates with instructional coaches to ensure fidelity in progress monitoring and data-based decision-makingLeadership & CultureServes as a visible leader who models professionalism, engagement, and ethical practiceBuilds a school culture grounded in belonging, respect, and community partnershipCollaborates with families and local organizations to enhance academic and enrichment opportunitiesParticipates in community outreach, student recruitment, and events that promote FLAMA's missionParticipated in external professional development opportunities to build capacity and grow skillsetBehavioral Systems & Student SupportWorks with faculty, counselors, and families to address academic and behavioral challenges through restorative and skill-building approachesSupports implementation of FLAMA's Code of Conduct and Executive Function curriculumCoordinates with the Superintendent on student discipline and, when delegated, serves as the acting administrator for behavioral interventions and family communicationOperational & Strategic LeadershipContributes to the development of the annual academic budgetAssists in staffing, scheduling, and faculty assignments in coordination with administrative leadershipServes on the Superintendent's Leadership Team to advance strategic goals, charter renewal, and long-term planningLeads the academic charter renewal and ensures compliance with applicable state and charter regulationsRequirementsEducationMaster's degree or Ph.D./Ed.D. in Education, Curriculum & Instruction, Educational Leadership, or equivalent requiredTexas Teaching certificate required and Principal certification preferred (or equivalent in another state)ExperienceMinimum five years of successful experience in teaching and instructional leadershipProven expertise in faculty development, coaching, and supervisionDemonstrated success implementing MTSS and supporting SPED, EB, and at-risk populationsExperience with integrated or arts-based learning models preferredProfessional CompetenciesDeep understanding of curriculum design, assessment, and cognitive science researchStrong analytical and organizational skills with an eye for detail and alignmentProficiency with instructional technology platforms and data systemsExcellent communication, collaboration, and problem-solving abilitiesDemonstrated ability to build trust, foster innovation, and maintain a culture of excellenceBilingual (English/Spanish) skills are strongly preferred but not requiredA teacher at heart who leads with empathy and academic rigorA life-long learner dedicated to continuous improvementValues the intersection of academics, music, and the arts as pathways to student successCommitted to access for all learnersBenefitsThis position offers a competitive salary range of $80,000 - $100,000. More details can be provided upon request.TO APPLYPlease submit a resume online at https://apply.workable.com/j/E4F7186888.All Texas public school employee applicants must undergo a mandatory fingerprint-based criminal history check and submit a pre-employment affidavit, in accordance with requirements under the Texas Education Code, prior to employment. FLAMA is an equal opportunity employer and an organization that values diversity. Recruiting staff to create an inclusive organization is a priority, and we encourage applicants from all backgrounds. Candidates are evaluated solely on their qualifications to perform the work required.