Magen David Academy

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“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
– Nelson Mandela

WHO WE ARE

At MDA, we create an enriching educational experience where strong, meaningful relationships between students and teachers flourish. Our focus on 21st-century skills equips students with the competencies they need to succeed in a rapidly evolving world. Through this holistic approach, our students are empowered to not only thrive and adapt but also to lead as agents of positive change in the future.

Magen David Academy (MDA), founded in 2008 is an International School, accredited by COGNIA and its affiliate SACS, as well as the Panamanian Board of Education. MDA’s three-tiered curriculum is aligned with College Board (AP) and Common Core Standards, Panamanian National Standards, and International Hebrew and Judaic Standards. All courses are in English except Spanish and Hebrew language classes.

In its 16 years, Magen David Academy has transformed itself from a small family-oriented school of 150 students into a prestigious academic institution, serving nearly 500 students of the Jewish Community in Panama.

MDA employs more than 152 multicultural teaching staff members (of which 27 are Judaic Curriculum Staff), from 17 different countries. The school has achieved this growth while preserving the closeknit community that defines its culture, from PK1 through 12th grade.

All staff positions, including leadership positions, are open to candidates from all nationalities and backgrounds.

POSITION GOALS & QUALIFICATIONS

Qualifications:

+ Master’s or higher degree in educational leadership or school administration.

+ Proven track record in school leadership, preferably as Head of School.

+ Thought leader with extensive experience in educational pedagogy, curriculum, improving learning outcomes, and enhancing the school experience.

+ Recruitment and Accreditation: Skilled in recruiting faculty, staff, and administration; experienced with accreditation protocols.

+ Community Builder: capable of creating and nurturing a professional learning community, with a focus on continuous improvement of teaching and learning. A leader committed to the professional development and well-being of all teachers & staff.

+ Strategic Planning: Proven ability to lead strategic planning, financial management, and community engagement.

+ Board Collaboration: Experienced in working with a Board of Trustees, able to work autonomously and collaboratively within a leadership team.

* Spanish proficiency would be helpful but is not a requirement.

Goals:

+ Inspire and provide visionary leadership.

+ Create a challenging, effective, well-rounded international educational experience for students based on Jewish and universal values, preparing students to become responsible leaders who positively shape and impact their communities.

+ Demonstrate exemplary management skills in the recruitment and professional development of faculty, staff, and administration.

+ Design, implement, and assess an excellence fostering curriculum.

+ Develop plans to ensure short, intermediate, and long-term financial stability.

+ Deliver effective communication with all school constituents.

+ Orchestrate planning processes to achieve MDA’s mission and vision.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Leadership and School Culture

+ Role: The Head of School (HOS) acts as the CEO and leader of the Senior Leadership Team, supervising all school personnel.

+ Reporting: Reports directly to the Board Chairman and Trustees, interfacing with parents, faculty, staff, administrators, students, and community representatives.

+ Team Building: Strengthen the leadership and administrative team, consolidating coordination and cohesion.

+ Organizational Culture: Cultivate a culture of inclusivity, curiosity, compassion, collaboration, independence, and respect, to empower students to become ethical and responsible leaders who contribute positively to their communities.

+ Relationships: Establish relationships with relevant organizations in Panama. Maintain and strengthen existing positive relationships with educational and community authorities.

Strategic Planning and Financial Management

+ Business Acumen: Demonstrate fluency in business and finance by developing and managing annual budgets and providing financial updates to the Board.

+ Strategic Planning: Develop and execute strategic plans to keep MDA at the forefront of education, aligned with the school’s objectives and core values.

+ Data-Driven Decisions: Use data to tailor MDA’s services to student needs and enhance programming.

Community and Stakeholder Engagement

+ Parent Engagement: Build strong relationships with parents, addressing concerns and making decisions that benefit the school community.

+ Community Engagement: Actively participate in school and community events, fostering belonging and integration.

“Teaching kids to count is fine, but teaching them what counts is best.”
– Bob Talbert

+ Communication: Maintain clear and consistent communication within the school and with external stakeholders, strengthening the school’s reputation and relationships. Oversee all communications and take direct responsibility for public statements made by school employees regarding educational matters, policies, procedures, and school-related incidents or events.

+ Communicate with prospective families: clearly articulate MDA’s identity, philosophy, and objectives to prospective students and their families, while outlining the school’s expectations for both upon acceptance.

+ Expertise in educational advancement and fundraising: Demonstrated expertise in cultivating donor relationships and achieving philanthropic objectives, driving institutional growth and enhancing educational impact.

Educational Leadership and Innovation

+ Academic Excellence: Inspire students to achieve their dreams and adapt to a changing world, equipping them with the skills to lead responsibly and positively impact their communities.

+ Curriculum Development: Lead the creation of a cohesive curriculum from Preschool through High School, emphasizing academic rigor, inquiry led learning, student well-being, and leadership development, all based on Jewish and universal values.

+ Program Strengthening: Enhance the AP program, develop the AP Capstone, and oversee College Counseling. Update educational technology to support modern teaching practices.

+ Judaic Integration: Work with the Judaic Director to integrate Judaic themes into the secular curriculum, emphasizing values that foster responsible citizenship and leadership.

Human Resources Management

+ Staff Development: Mentor and inspire staff, providing training and professional development. Build the school’s reputation as an attractive employer.

+ Performance Supervision: Evaluate the performance of section principals and coordinators, ensuring high standards are maintained.

+ Personnel Management: Oversee recruitment, retention, and development of faculty and staff, ensuring effective deployment of personnel.

School Identity and Jewish Values

+ Cultural Alignment: Uphold and communicate the school’s identity, balancing tradition with innovation. Ensure compliance with Jewish customs, including observance of Shabbat and holidays and kosher restrictions in all school events.

+ Reputation Management: Maintain and enhance the school’s reputation, adapting its identity to changing times while preserving its core values.

+ Positive Leadership: Support and foster activities that develop students into thoughtful, compassionate leaders who respect their heritage and are committed to making a difference.

Board Relations

+ Collaboration: Maintain a positive working relationship with the Board of Trustees, offering advice and acting as a thought partner in strategic planning.

+ Meeting Participation: Attend board meetings, present proposed changes, and implement board decisions.

+ Agenda Preparation: Prepare meeting agendas and provide reports to support informed decision-making.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

MDA has partnered with Search Associates to assist in the search process.

Interested candidates should send their application as an email attachment to Rajiv Bhat of Search Associates (rbhat@searchassociates.com) including all the items below, collated together in a single pdf, to arrive as soon as possible, and no later than November 11, 2024:

1. A letter of application, outlining concisely why the candidate wishes to be a contender for this position and what specific skills, qualities and experience they could offer.

2. A CV (no more than two pages)

3. A statement explaining their educational philosophy (one page)

4. The names and full contact details of at least three professional referees who have served as the candidate’s immediate supervisors – one of these should if possible be the leader of the candidate’s current organization.

REPORTING RELATIONSHIP

1. The Head of School will report directly to the Board of Directors.

2. All staff members, including Business Manager, Pre-School Principal, Elementary Principal, Secondary Principal and Judaic Director report to the Head of School.

3. On Judaic curriculum, traditions, and other related matters, the Judaic Director has a certain autonomy and reports to the board, working in broad collaboration and coordination with the Head of School.

COMPENSATION

Salary and benefits are competitive and will be dependent upon the qualifications and experience of the successful candidate.

The Board of Directors will have yearly evaluations of job performance based on contract and Board Policies

OUR MISSION

MDA is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of leaders through a transformative educational experience that integrates Jewish values, critical thinking skills, and the latest technological advancements. Our mission is to foster academic excellence while instilling a strong sense of Jewish identity and social responsibility. By building a supportive and inclusive community, we empower students to embrace innovation, thrive in their academic pursuits, and develop into compassionate leaders who are ready to positively shape society.

“Teachers who love teaching, teach children to love learning.” -Unknown

OUR VISION

At Magen David Academy, we envision a vibrant learning environment where students are inspired to achieve their full potential academically, socially, and personally. Our graduates will leave equipped not only with academic success, but with the Jewish values, skills, and mindset necessary to confidently navigate an ever-evolving world. With integrity, compassion, and a deep connection to the state of Israel, MDA students will be prepared to become leaders who contribute to their communities locally and globally. As a leading institution in Jewish education, we are committed to shaping the future through educational excellence and communal responsibility.

ACADEMIC APPROACH

MDA emphasizes a holistic, student-centered approach that blends rigorous academics with innovative teaching methods. Our curriculum integrates Jewish studies with secular subjects, encouraging critical thinking, inquiry based learning, collaboration, and creative problemsolving. Students are encouraged to explore their passions and are supported in their personal and academic growth. From early childhood to high school, MDA promotes the development of lifelong learners who are prepared to adapt and succeed in a rapidly changing world.

Teacher and Staff Development at Magen David Academy:

With a teaching staff of 150+, a 6:1 student/ teacher ratio and 17 nationalities, at Magen David Academy (MDA), we recognize that ongoing teacher and staff development is essential for maintaining an innovative, nurturing, and academically rigorous learning environment. Through a variety of professional

development opportunities, mentorship programs, and collaborative learning initiatives, we aim to cultivate a dynamic educational community where educators thrive and grow.

Technology and Innovation:

Magen David Academy is committed to integrating technology into education. We believe that technological literacy is essential for success in the 21st century, and our students benefit from cutting-edge resources that enhance their learning experiences. At the same time, our classrooms are free of distractions like cell phones, ensuring students are fully engaged in their learning.

Jewish Identity and Values:

Jewish values are at the core of MDA’s educational philosophy. Through a robust Judaic curriculum, students develop a strong sense of identity, a connection to their heritage, and a deep bond with Israel. Our students celebrate our traditions, engage in meaningful religious study, and participate in community service activities that emphasize the importance of social responsibility, ethical leadership, and tikkun olam (repairing the world).

Community and Leadership:

MDA fosters a close-knit community where students, teachers, and families work together to create an environment of mutual respect, collaboration, and support. Leadership development is a key focus at MDA, with students being encouraged to take initiative, lead by example, and participate in both local and global community-building activities. Our graduates emerge as compassionate leaders who are well-prepared to make a lasting impact on society.

Global Citizenship:

With a strong emphasis on global citizenship, Magen David Academy equips students with the skills and mindset to navigate an interconnected world. We cultivate an understanding of diverse perspectives and encourage students to engage in meaningful dialogue and action on both local and global issues. This global focus, combined with our deep commitment to Jewish and universal values, empowers students to lead with confidence and integrity in any environment.

Special Programs:

At Magen David Academy, we are continually enhancing the educational experience for our staff, students, and parents through a variety of extracurricular and special programs. Some standout initiatives include:

+ LATET Program: This year-long volunteer initiative engages each grade in a meaningful community service project, including Make-A-Wish, Public School visits, and hospital visits among others.

+ FAMILY ACADEMY: This educational program offers parents and staff the opportunity to attend conferences led by national and international professionals in education and parenting.

+ Sports: Our MDA HAWKS compete in a growing selection of after-school sports programs and participate in national interschool leagues, promoting teamwork and physical fitness.

+ Academic and School Clubs: Students also have the chance to engage in leadership and academic excellence through clubs such as STUCO (our student government), the National Honor Society, and the English Honor Society, fostering both personal growth and academic achievement.

These programs reflect our commitment to holistic development, ensuring our community thrives both in and outside the classroom.

College Admissions:

MDA graduates go on to leading colleges in the US and Europe. Our 2023-2024 graduating class of 28 students had: 8 Ivy League Acceptances, 4 acceptances in top 10 schools, 9 acceptances in top 20 schools, 25 acceptances in top 30 schools, a total of 104 acceptance letters and 30 scholarships offered.

Our Facilities:

Magen David Academy currently operates across two campuses. The first, established in 2008, is located in Panama Pacifico and serves students from 1st to 12th grade. Our second campus, founded in 2021, is situated in Panama City and accommodates students from PreKindergarten (PK-1) through kindergarten. Both campuses feature cafeterias, modern learning laboratories, athletic facilities, and playgrounds designed to support students’ physical and educational development.

Looking to the future:

MDA is excited to announce the development of a new, state-of-the-art campus that will unite students from PK-1 through 12th grade. This facility is being carefully designed to meet the evolving needs of our growing student body, providing a space where learning, creativity, and well-being can thrive. With a focus on security and thoughtful design, the new campus will be a place where students feel safe, inspired, and engaged.

MDA is an active member of the following associations:

Education is

not the

learning of facts, but training of the mind to think — A. Einstein

+ American International Schools Association (AMISA)

+ Panamanian Association of Internationally minded Schools (PAIS)

Magen David Academy teachers & staff enjoy the added benefit of experiencing, learning, and participating in school-wide traditions which celebrate Jewish as well as Panamanian holidays and festivities.

LIVING IN PANAMA

Also known as the “Hub of the Americas,” Panama is a wonderful place to live. Adapting to Panama is easy as it has warm, friendly people, all types of quality restaurants, vibrant nightlife, lush rainforest within its city limits, rich volcanic mountains, and it’s surprisingly close to the United States.

Although Spanish is the official language of Panama, English is widely spoken in Panama City and some of the more popular tourist destinations. There is also a large expat community. A working knowledge of Spanish will allow you to carry out your daily activities with greater ease when needing to communicate with locals.

The official currency is the Panamanian Balboa, but in practice, the country uses the US dollar for all of its paper currency and most of its coins.

Because of its strategic geographic position, Panama’s economy is centered on a welldeveloped service sector heavily weighted toward banking, commerce, tourism, and trading.

Entertainment and dining out are very popular activities in Panama. There are many shopping centers with local department stores and upscale designer shops, as well as great stores with discounted merchandise and retail shopping offering just about anything found in the United States.

Panama’s geographic location, together with the fact that Tocumen is the largest airport in Central America, makes other countries in Central America, South America, and the Caribbean easily accessible. Many airlines have a local presence, even with direct flights to several European and other Eastern capitals.

Panama’s exuberant nature has since been a haven attracting tourists and residents in different activities (fishing, surfing, bird watching, hiking, etc) in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

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