Head of Student Supports
Top Benefits
About the role
Our Approach
At the heart of all we do is a commitment to the individual child. For over four decades, Calgary Academy (CA) has remained dedicated to creating an exceptional educational environment that fully embraces each student's unique learning profile, offering tailored pathways to their success. Our primary aim is to craft engaging, student-centred experiences that foster a deep-rooted love for learning in K-12 education. Our approach to teaching and learning is underpinned by our four pillars, a set of core beliefs, and the guiding principles of The CA Way, all of which empower a diverse range of learners to pursue lives filled with passion and purpose.
About the Role
Calgary Academy is seeking a visionary leader to join our Student Supports & Wellness Team as the Head of Student Supports, beginning August 13, 2025. This full-time, continuous position will report to the Director of Student Supports and Wellness and plays a vital role in shaping and aligning our school-based academic and social-emotional learning (SEL) supports within a unified, student-centered framework. From literacy and numeracy to mental health and well-being, the Head of Student Supports collaborates with educators and specialists to ensure every student receives the individualized academic, cognitive, and emotional supports they need to thrive. This role also champions inclusive practices, fosters a culture of belonging and resilience, and guides the development of school-wide mental health programming.
Salary Range
This position is paid on our School Psychologist pay grid which ranges from $105,1093 to $119,946 and will be determined depending on a candidate’s experience and competencies. This role will additionally receive an allowance to account for the supervisory responsibilities.
Highlights of Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership and Integration
- Working closely with the Director of Student Supports & Wellbeing lead the development, coordination, and continuous improvement of a unified, school-wide system of student supports that integrates academic, social-emotional, and mental health services, such as Positive Behavorial Interventions & Supports.
- Align the work of multidisciplinary teams—including literacy, numeracy, psychology, counselling, speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, and wellness services—under a cohesive vision that supports student flourishing.
- Develop and lead the strategy for students K-12 to understand themselves as learners, with an emphasis on implementation of the Continuum of Support and Services.
Instructional and Inclusion Leadership
- Guide the implementation of research-based strategies that enhance learning for all students, with a focus on literacy, numeracy, executive functioning, and academic strategy instruction.
- Ensure all supports and services reflect a strong understanding of human development, cognitive diversity, and the learning sciences.
Mental Health and Wellbeing
- Provide leadership for the school’s mental health and wellbeing programming, ensuring services and initiatives promote resilience, belonging, and a proactive culture of care.
- Lead the Students of Concern, providing oversight and coordination in response to urgent or complex student situations involving safety, behaviour, or mental health. Ensure that responses are timely, student-centered, and trauma-informed, and that all actions align with school protocols, legal obligations, and best practices in student care.
- Oversee the design and delivery of school-wide initiatives that support student wellbeing, including the integration of SEL (social-emotional learning) into the school’s daily practice.
Collaboration and Capacity Building
- Build strong, collaborative relationships with teachers, administrators, families, and external specialists to ensure timely, effective, and student-centered support.
- Provide coaching and professional development for staff on classroom-based supports, and student regulation strategies.
- Supervise and support a team of professionals, including specialists in learning support, counselling, therapy services, and integrated studies.
- Translate strategic objectives into clear, operational plans that guide team priorities and actions.
Data-Informed Practice and Operational Leadership
- Collaborate with School Leadership to use data, assessments, and evidence to monitor student needs, evaluate service effectiveness, and refine intervention models.
- Oversee processes for referral, case management, and communication regarding student supports, ensuring ethical, timely, and inclusive practices.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
- Direct reports include, Registered Psychologist, School Counselor, Speech-Language Pathologist & Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant (S-LPA), Reading Centre Educators, Math Support, Literacy (Reading & Writing) Leads, Career & Academic Advisors, Numeracy Lead, Mental Health Education Specialist and Learning Commons Coordinator.
Qualifications
- Registered Psychologist with demonstrated success in a school setting, and a track record of progressive leadership responsibilities.
- 3-5 Years of experience leading a multidisciplinary support service, including psychology, speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, and behaviour intervention.
- Strong understanding of Individual Learning Plans (ILPs) and how a student’s needs drive differentiated support within and beyond the classroom.
- Expertise in using student data, research, and both formative and summative assessments to inform instructional planning, supports, and interventions.
- Strong grasp of how to implement, manage, and evaluate large-scale educational initiatives in alignment with school and divisional strategic goals.
- In-depth knowledge of cognitive, emotional, and behavioural development and how diverse learners experience school.
- Demonstrated expertise in developing response protocols, guiding staff practices, and collaborating with external agencies. Certification or training in crisis intervention (e.g., CPI), trauma-informed practices, or related is required.
- Ability to inspire, support, and manage a high-performing team of specialists and educators through effective supervision, mentorship, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills that foster collaboration with teaching staff, student support teams, administration, and external service providers.
- Ability to approach challenges holistically, recognizing interdependencies and designing sustainable, scalable, and student-centered solutions.
- Committed to unifying diverse disciplines under a shared vision for student support and continuous learning growth.
- Demonstrates a commitment to ongoing evaluation and iterative improvement based on evidence, feedback, and measurable results.
- Builds systems and nurtures culture that reflect deep respect for all learners, ensuring equitable access to high-quality support and holding high expectations for every student.
Why Pursue Your Career at CA?
At Calgary Academy, we are passionate about creating a thriving educational environment for our students. However, we recognize that the true heart of our success lies in our dedicated employees who choose to pursue their career passions within the Headwater Learning Group.
Our commitment to our employees is centred on your well-being and financial security. We prioritize you and your family by offering extended health and drug coverage inclusive of Dental coverage, access to an Employee & Family Assistance Program, income protection with Long Term Disability in case of unforeseen circumstances, a Wellness Benefit designed to nurture your physical and mental health and an RRSP matching program to secure your financial future.
This position will follow the school calendar, with two and a half weeks off over the winter break, two weeks for spring break and approximately seven weeks over the summer break. To promote work-life balance, we offer a Personal Day, 10 Sick Days/Family Caregiving Days to use as required, and Top-Up Programs for Maternity and Paternity leaves, granting you the flexibility and support necessary for personal well-being and caring for your family members.
We are all learners, and this philosophy underpins our entire organization. We are committed to creating a collaborative work environment where every team member can grow and develop. Our belief in continuous learning is a core value and a driving force behind our strategic plan. We provide professional learning opportunities to all employees, ensuring that personal growth and development are encouraged and actively nurtured. By fostering a culture of learning and collaboration, we empower our team members to reach their full potential and contribute to the shared success of the Calgary Academy Community.
This position will work onsite Monday through Friday from 8:00a.m. to 4:00p.m with a 30 min unpaid lunch break.
Aligning Values:
Please apply online through the Calgary Academy Careers Page (via ADP) and include in your application package the following information:
- A resume that demonstrates your skills and experience.
- In place of a traditional cover letter, please include a video (maximum 3 minutes) as part of your application. Share an accessible link to your video within your application package. In your video, please respond to the following prompts:
- What inspired you to apply for this opportunity at Calgary Academy? How does our mission resonate with you, and how have your experiences shaped your perspective on supporting diverse learners? In your response, we invite you to reflect on how your professional journey aligns with our student-centred approach and how you bring that to life in your daily work.
Please submit your application without delay to be considered for this role. We will begin reviewing applications on June 16th; however, the posting will remain open until the position is filled.
We wish to thank all candidates for their interest in Calgary Academy, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
In the spirit of reconciliation, we acknowledge that we live, work and play on the traditional territories of the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika, Kainai, Piikani), the Tsuut’ina, the Îyârhe Nakoda Nations, the Otipemisiwak Métis Government of the Métis Nation within Alberta District 6, and all people who make their homes in the Treaty 7 region of Southern Alberta.
About Calgary Academy
We're here for people who think and learn differently. For 40 years, we've provided an unparalleled environment that embraces students' unique learning needs, while simultaneously inspiring them to achieve individual greatness. From helping students with their learning difficulties to challenging independent students to think bigger and do more than they ever have before, we have the expertise to tailor the way we teach to the way our students learn. Our holistic academic program pushes students to grow, succeed and set new goals both inside and out of the classroom.
For our staff, it's all about the kids. Our students need our teachers' very best, so we're passionately committed to helping them give it. We empower our staff with the skills and tools they need to support our students. We welcome new colleagues into the fold, share our resources and stand together during challenges and successes. We succeed and grow as a team, always.
If you have a dedication to putting your students first, a work ethic that doesn't quit, and a commitment to reflecting and refining your practice, then CA is the place for you. We're looking for enthusiastic team players, lifelong learners, and people who know that a great teacher can change a student's life forever. If you lead with your heart and believe your work must be meaningful to be rewarding, you sound like CA material.
Head of Student Supports
Top Benefits
About the role
Our Approach
At the heart of all we do is a commitment to the individual child. For over four decades, Calgary Academy (CA) has remained dedicated to creating an exceptional educational environment that fully embraces each student's unique learning profile, offering tailored pathways to their success. Our primary aim is to craft engaging, student-centred experiences that foster a deep-rooted love for learning in K-12 education. Our approach to teaching and learning is underpinned by our four pillars, a set of core beliefs, and the guiding principles of The CA Way, all of which empower a diverse range of learners to pursue lives filled with passion and purpose.
About the Role
Calgary Academy is seeking a visionary leader to join our Student Supports & Wellness Team as the Head of Student Supports, beginning August 13, 2025. This full-time, continuous position will report to the Director of Student Supports and Wellness and plays a vital role in shaping and aligning our school-based academic and social-emotional learning (SEL) supports within a unified, student-centered framework. From literacy and numeracy to mental health and well-being, the Head of Student Supports collaborates with educators and specialists to ensure every student receives the individualized academic, cognitive, and emotional supports they need to thrive. This role also champions inclusive practices, fosters a culture of belonging and resilience, and guides the development of school-wide mental health programming.
Salary Range
This position is paid on our School Psychologist pay grid which ranges from $105,1093 to $119,946 and will be determined depending on a candidate’s experience and competencies. This role will additionally receive an allowance to account for the supervisory responsibilities.
Highlights of Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership and Integration
- Working closely with the Director of Student Supports & Wellbeing lead the development, coordination, and continuous improvement of a unified, school-wide system of student supports that integrates academic, social-emotional, and mental health services, such as Positive Behavorial Interventions & Supports.
- Align the work of multidisciplinary teams—including literacy, numeracy, psychology, counselling, speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, and wellness services—under a cohesive vision that supports student flourishing.
- Develop and lead the strategy for students K-12 to understand themselves as learners, with an emphasis on implementation of the Continuum of Support and Services.
Instructional and Inclusion Leadership
- Guide the implementation of research-based strategies that enhance learning for all students, with a focus on literacy, numeracy, executive functioning, and academic strategy instruction.
- Ensure all supports and services reflect a strong understanding of human development, cognitive diversity, and the learning sciences.
Mental Health and Wellbeing
- Provide leadership for the school’s mental health and wellbeing programming, ensuring services and initiatives promote resilience, belonging, and a proactive culture of care.
- Lead the Students of Concern, providing oversight and coordination in response to urgent or complex student situations involving safety, behaviour, or mental health. Ensure that responses are timely, student-centered, and trauma-informed, and that all actions align with school protocols, legal obligations, and best practices in student care.
- Oversee the design and delivery of school-wide initiatives that support student wellbeing, including the integration of SEL (social-emotional learning) into the school’s daily practice.
Collaboration and Capacity Building
- Build strong, collaborative relationships with teachers, administrators, families, and external specialists to ensure timely, effective, and student-centered support.
- Provide coaching and professional development for staff on classroom-based supports, and student regulation strategies.
- Supervise and support a team of professionals, including specialists in learning support, counselling, therapy services, and integrated studies.
- Translate strategic objectives into clear, operational plans that guide team priorities and actions.
Data-Informed Practice and Operational Leadership
- Collaborate with School Leadership to use data, assessments, and evidence to monitor student needs, evaluate service effectiveness, and refine intervention models.
- Oversee processes for referral, case management, and communication regarding student supports, ensuring ethical, timely, and inclusive practices.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
- Direct reports include, Registered Psychologist, School Counselor, Speech-Language Pathologist & Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant (S-LPA), Reading Centre Educators, Math Support, Literacy (Reading & Writing) Leads, Career & Academic Advisors, Numeracy Lead, Mental Health Education Specialist and Learning Commons Coordinator.
Qualifications
- Registered Psychologist with demonstrated success in a school setting, and a track record of progressive leadership responsibilities.
- 3-5 Years of experience leading a multidisciplinary support service, including psychology, speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, and behaviour intervention.
- Strong understanding of Individual Learning Plans (ILPs) and how a student’s needs drive differentiated support within and beyond the classroom.
- Expertise in using student data, research, and both formative and summative assessments to inform instructional planning, supports, and interventions.
- Strong grasp of how to implement, manage, and evaluate large-scale educational initiatives in alignment with school and divisional strategic goals.
- In-depth knowledge of cognitive, emotional, and behavioural development and how diverse learners experience school.
- Demonstrated expertise in developing response protocols, guiding staff practices, and collaborating with external agencies. Certification or training in crisis intervention (e.g., CPI), trauma-informed practices, or related is required.
- Ability to inspire, support, and manage a high-performing team of specialists and educators through effective supervision, mentorship, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills that foster collaboration with teaching staff, student support teams, administration, and external service providers.
- Ability to approach challenges holistically, recognizing interdependencies and designing sustainable, scalable, and student-centered solutions.
- Committed to unifying diverse disciplines under a shared vision for student support and continuous learning growth.
- Demonstrates a commitment to ongoing evaluation and iterative improvement based on evidence, feedback, and measurable results.
- Builds systems and nurtures culture that reflect deep respect for all learners, ensuring equitable access to high-quality support and holding high expectations for every student.
Why Pursue Your Career at CA?
At Calgary Academy, we are passionate about creating a thriving educational environment for our students. However, we recognize that the true heart of our success lies in our dedicated employees who choose to pursue their career passions within the Headwater Learning Group.
Our commitment to our employees is centred on your well-being and financial security. We prioritize you and your family by offering extended health and drug coverage inclusive of Dental coverage, access to an Employee & Family Assistance Program, income protection with Long Term Disability in case of unforeseen circumstances, a Wellness Benefit designed to nurture your physical and mental health and an RRSP matching program to secure your financial future.
This position will follow the school calendar, with two and a half weeks off over the winter break, two weeks for spring break and approximately seven weeks over the summer break. To promote work-life balance, we offer a Personal Day, 10 Sick Days/Family Caregiving Days to use as required, and Top-Up Programs for Maternity and Paternity leaves, granting you the flexibility and support necessary for personal well-being and caring for your family members.
We are all learners, and this philosophy underpins our entire organization. We are committed to creating a collaborative work environment where every team member can grow and develop. Our belief in continuous learning is a core value and a driving force behind our strategic plan. We provide professional learning opportunities to all employees, ensuring that personal growth and development are encouraged and actively nurtured. By fostering a culture of learning and collaboration, we empower our team members to reach their full potential and contribute to the shared success of the Calgary Academy Community.
This position will work onsite Monday through Friday from 8:00a.m. to 4:00p.m with a 30 min unpaid lunch break.
Aligning Values:
Please apply online through the Calgary Academy Careers Page (via ADP) and include in your application package the following information:
- A resume that demonstrates your skills and experience.
- In place of a traditional cover letter, please include a video (maximum 3 minutes) as part of your application. Share an accessible link to your video within your application package. In your video, please respond to the following prompts:
- What inspired you to apply for this opportunity at Calgary Academy? How does our mission resonate with you, and how have your experiences shaped your perspective on supporting diverse learners? In your response, we invite you to reflect on how your professional journey aligns with our student-centred approach and how you bring that to life in your daily work.
Please submit your application without delay to be considered for this role. We will begin reviewing applications on June 16th; however, the posting will remain open until the position is filled.
We wish to thank all candidates for their interest in Calgary Academy, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
In the spirit of reconciliation, we acknowledge that we live, work and play on the traditional territories of the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika, Kainai, Piikani), the Tsuut’ina, the Îyârhe Nakoda Nations, the Otipemisiwak Métis Government of the Métis Nation within Alberta District 6, and all people who make their homes in the Treaty 7 region of Southern Alberta.
About Calgary Academy
We're here for people who think and learn differently. For 40 years, we've provided an unparalleled environment that embraces students' unique learning needs, while simultaneously inspiring them to achieve individual greatness. From helping students with their learning difficulties to challenging independent students to think bigger and do more than they ever have before, we have the expertise to tailor the way we teach to the way our students learn. Our holistic academic program pushes students to grow, succeed and set new goals both inside and out of the classroom.
For our staff, it's all about the kids. Our students need our teachers' very best, so we're passionately committed to helping them give it. We empower our staff with the skills and tools they need to support our students. We welcome new colleagues into the fold, share our resources and stand together during challenges and successes. We succeed and grow as a team, always.
If you have a dedication to putting your students first, a work ethic that doesn't quit, and a commitment to reflecting and refining your practice, then CA is the place for you. We're looking for enthusiastic team players, lifelong learners, and people who know that a great teacher can change a student's life forever. If you lead with your heart and believe your work must be meaningful to be rewarding, you sound like CA material.