Head of Middle School - Aug 2026

Dubai American Academy, a leading American educational institution under GEMS Education, offers an exceptional learning environment from PreK through Grade 12, along with the IB Diploma Programme. For 13 consecutive years, we have received an Outstanding rating from the KHDA, recognized for our academic excellence, vibrant international community, and state-of-the-art facilities.

Highlights:

• Outstanding KHDA rating maintained for 13 years
• Named as the Best American Curriculum School in the UAE (2023–2024) and awarded the Wellbeing Award for Schools (2024–2027)
• Accredited by CIS and NEASC, and authorized to deliver the IB Diploma Programme
• A diverse international student body supported by highly qualified staff and superb facilities

At DAA, educators benefit from exceptional professional development and learning opportunities, which enable their growth and contribute to the Academy's ongoing achievements.

Position Overview:

Dubai American Academy (DAA) is looking for an exceptional Head of Middle School to join its forward-thinking leadership team. As a distinguished institution within the GEMS network, DAA is celebrated for its high standards, strong community involvement, and commitment to excellence. This position offers a unique chance for an experienced leader to make a significant impact on the Middle School experience and support the institution's continued progress.

The role requires providing visionary leadership and exemplary management in recruiting and developing faculty, implementing a high-quality curriculum, ensuring long-term financial viability, and fostering effective communication with all stakeholders. The objective is to enhance the social and academic development of every student.

Key Accountabilities:

• Uphold and promote the principles and standards of excellence outlined in the GEMS Core Values.
• Ensure compliance with GEMS policies, procedures, and codes of conduct at all times.
• Model and cultivate DAA’s Culture of Kindness while reinforcing the school’s mission and values.
• Devote time and leadership to effectively implement DAA’s School Improvement Plan and develop division-specific strategies aligned with our strategic priorities.
• Ensure that all teachers and support staff comprehend their performance expectations (e.g., job descriptions and faculty handbook) and assist them in becoming master educators.
• Provide mentorship to faculty and encourage their professional growth and career advancement.
• Demonstrate role-model characteristics that position the principal as an instructional leader.
• Foster a sense of shared purpose and collective pursuit of consensus goals in the decision-making process.
• Communicate effectively with students, faculty, staff, parents, and the community through various means (e.g., verbal, nonverbal, and written).
• Encourage faculty and parent participation in a variety of school activities.
• Develop leadership skills among teachers and share leadership responsibilities as appropriate.
• Ensure that curriculum documentation clearly delineates content, skills, instructional methods, and assessment practices.
• Use assessment outcomes to evaluate whether curriculum and instructional goals, as well as student performance outcomes, are being achieved.
• Create a supportive, productive, and nurturing environment where all students (and faculty) can be recognized for their best efforts.
• Ensure that all school resources are effectively identified and utilized to support students and faculty in reaching their full potential.
• Take responsibility for sound financial management, including accurate budget planning and fiscal accountability.
• Exhibit a personal commitment to continuous professional development and growth, embodying the principles of lifelong learning.
• Acknowledge the importance of attending after-school student activities and parent events.
• Assume full responsibility for the logistical aspects of the role.

Apply via the WhatSchool platform.