Director of Admissions (Exempt)
Job Summary
The Director of Admissions is a key member of Jacksonville Country Day School’s administrative team, responsible for leading all aspects of the admissions and enrollment process. This position plays an essential role in advancing the school’s mission by attracting, enrolling, and retaining a diverse and dynamic student body. The Director of Admissions reports to the Director of Advancement and works collaboratively with faculty, staff, and school leadership to ensure the continued vitality of the school community.
The Director of Admissions is a key member of Jacksonville Country Day School’s administrative team, responsible for leading all aspects of the admissions and enrollment process. This position plays an essential role in advancing the school’s mission by attracting, enrolling, and retaining a diverse and dynamic student body. The Director of Admissions reports to the Director of Advancement and works collaboratively with faculty, staff, and school leadership to ensure the continued vitality of the school community.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Advance the mission and standards of JCDS by identifying, recruiting, and retaining students who will thrive as a part of the school’s unique culture and programs while contributing positively to the broader school community.
- Demonstrate a strong understanding of child development and an aptitude for working with children and families.
- Manage all facets of the admissions cycle, including inquiries, tours, assessments, and enrollment.
- Lead the admissions process by overseeing three core areas essential to enrollment health:
- Admissions management
- Research and data analysis
- Student retention
- In collaboration with the Director of Advancement, create and execute a strategic recruitment plan, including digital platforms, events, and personal outreach, to reach prospective families.
- Formulate and apply best practices to policies and procedures that strengthen enrollment and retention.
- Serve as the primary ambassador for the school to prospective families.
- Demonstrate high ethical standards, integrity, and respect for confidentiality.
- Exhibit a consultative approach to establish credibility and trust with parents, students, faculty, and community partners.
- Partner with faculty, staff, parent volunteers, Advancement Department colleagues, and the Business Office to ensure seamless coordination of admissions activities.
- Report regularly on admissions, enrollment, and retention to the Director of Advancement.
- Work effectively in a collaborative environment, showing respect for the school’s mission, diverse perspectives, input from varied sources, and colleagues and constituents.
- Communicate effectively with a wide range of audiences using clear, accurate, and engaging interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
- Display a high level of initiative, ownership, and follow-through, balancing strategic planning with day-to-day operational responsibilities.
- Supervise admissions office staff and manage the admissions budget.
- Represent JCDS at local and regional events.
- Identify and cultivate potential donors within the admissions pipeline, in collaboration with the Development team.
- Uphold and advance the mission, values, and traditions of Jacksonville Country Day School.
- Perform other duties as assigned in support of the Head of School and the Director of Advancement.
Qualifications
- Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in education or related field preferred.
- Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in admissions, enrollment management, or a related field; independent school experience strongly preferred.
- Demonstrated experience with recruitment, relationship management, and program promotion.
- Experience with data analysis and use of enrollment management systems; proficiency with Google Workspace; experience with Blackbaud or similar enrollment management systems.
Jacksonville Country Day School
Located in Jacksonville, FL, Jacksonville Country Day School is a private school for Pre-K 3 through 5th grade. JCDS prepares students for a healthy and productive lifetime of intellectual exploration, character development, and social responsibility.
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