Dean of Academy

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About Talcott Mountain Academy. Talcott Mountain Academy (TMA) is an independent Kindergarten through Grade 8 school located in Avon, Connecticut, and part of the Talcott Mountain Science Center, Academy, & Research Institute. Founded in 1983, the Academy serves intellectually curious and advanced learners through a highly individualized STEM focused education rooted in inquiry, creativity, and experiential learning. With exceptionally small class sizes, direct access to laboratories and observatories, and a close-knit community, TMA is widely recognized for its distinctive approach to gifted education.

Position Overview. Talcott Mountain Academy seeks a visionary and highly relational Dean of Academy to provide academic and operational leadership for the school beginning July 1, 2026. Reporting directly to the Executive Director, the Dean will oversee all aspects of student life, faculty leadership, academic programming, and daily school operations. This senior leadership role offers the opportunity to help shape the future of one of the nation’s most distinctive schools for gifted and advanced learners while strengthening the Academy’s regional and national reputation in STEM education.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the daily academic and operational functions of Talcott Mountain Academy
• Support, supervise, and develop faculty and staff while fostering professional growth
• Oversee student life initiatives and Social emotional learning programs
• Partner closely with the Executive Director and organizational leadership team
• Promote and articulate the mission, vision, and values of TMA
• Support enrollment growth and family retention efforts
• Represent the Academy within gifted and STEM education communities locally and nationally
• Foster a collaborative, innovative, and mission driven school culture
• Ensure excellence in teaching, learning, and individualized student support

Ideal Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will:

• Bring at least five years of educational leadership experience
• Demonstrate a deep understanding of gifted education and inquiry-based learning
• Possess exceptional communication and relationship building skills
• Combine strategic thinking with warmth, humility, and strong emotional intelligence
• Value collaboration, innovation, and student-centered leadership
• Hold a master’s degree in education or a related field
• Bring experience in STEM education or related disciplines
• Thrive within a small school environment grounded in close relationships and shared purpose