The Calgary Jewish Academy (CJA) – Calgary, AB
About CJA
The Calgary Jewish Academy (CJA) is a dual curriculum school serving students from Nursery to Grade 9. Our curriculum integrates the Alberta Program of Studies with Judaic Studies and Hebrew, creating a learning environment that pairs academic excellence with cultural identity, values, and connection.
We are a close-knit school community where strong relationships, purposeful work, and professional growth are valued and supported. CJA’s staff includes Jewish and non-Jewish educators who thrive in our values-based environment. Together, we support student success, contribute to a collaborative culture, and share responsibility for strengthening teaching and learning across the school.
The Role
We are seeking an Assistant Principal & Alberta Curriculum Lead who will partner closely with our Principal and the Head of Judaic Studies & Assistant Principal to support the day-to-day operation of the school and lead Alberta curriculum alignment across Kindergarten to Grade 9.
This leadership role is collaborative, hands-on, and deeply connected to student success. The Assistant Principal & Alberta Curriculum Lead is a visible and trusted presence in the school, supporting both students and staff while helping maintain a positive, structured learning environment.
The successful candidate will be a pedagogical leader who possesses excellent interpersonal skills, a proven record of teaching excellence, evidence of success in leading and encouraging professional learning, and a willingness to be involved in the school’s extracurricular activities. Administrative duties will include an active role in instructional leadership and all aspects of school leadership.
This is a hands-on leadership role focused on:
● Supporting teachers in their daily practice and professional growth.
● Maintaining clear and consistent expectations across classrooms.
● Strengthening instructional practice through coaching and feedback.
● Guiding Alberta curriculum alignment across grade levels.
● Ensuring the curriculum is delivered with both flexibility and rigour.
● Supporting a positive, structured learning environment for students.
● Partnering closely with the Principal to support daily operations and school-wide consistency.
● Providing effective leadership that fosters innovation, collaboration, respect and trust.
● Coordinating standardized testing and assessment programs, ensuring compliance with provincial regulations.
Key Responsibilities
School Operations & Staff Support
● Support the daily operations of the school, ensuring a consistent and positive student experience
● Act as a trusted resource for teachers navigating classroom, parent, and student challenges
● Work closely with teachers, counsellors, and parents to address student behavioural issues and promote a positive and inclusive school culture.
● Implement disciplinary procedures in accordance with school policies, ensuring fairness and consistency in disciplinary actions.
● Help maintain a professional, collaborative, and accountable staff culture
Alberta Curriculum Leadership
● Lead alignment of the Alberta curriculum across grade levels while respecting teacher autonomy in delivery
● Support teachers in balancing authentic, differentiated learning with clear expectations and outcomes
● Monitor student academic progress and implement interventions as needed to support struggling students.
● Provide guidance and support to teachers in designing engaging and differentiated instruction to meet the diverse needs of students.
Instructional Leadership & Teacher Development
● Observe classrooms and provide clear, practical feedback that supports teacher growth
● Coach teachers to strengthen both instructional practice and classroom management
● Support new teachers in understanding expectations, culture, and standards at CJA
● Lead professional development activities to enhance teaching effectiveness and promote continuous improvement in instructional practices.
Parent & Community Interface
● Build and maintain positive relationships with parents, community members, and external stakeholders to support the school’s mission and objectives.
● Address concerns thoughtfully, balancing empathy with clarity and professionalism
Who You Are
● A leader who believes strong relationships and high standards must coexist
● Comfortable bringing structure without rigidity and accountability while maintaining trust
● A credible, steady presence for teachers who is supportive in approach and clear in expectations
● Strong judgment when navigating the realities of a close-knit school community
● Practical, solutions-oriented approach to day-to-day leadership
Qualifications & Experience
● Bachelor of Education (required); Master’s degree considered an asset
● Valid Alberta Teaching Certificate (or eligibility)
● Strong knowledge of the Alberta curriculum, assessment, and reporting practices
● Prior leadership experience (Assistant Principal, Department Head, Instructional Lead, or similar role)
● Demonstrated ability to coach and develop teachers
What Makes CJA Different
CJA is a values-based, community-oriented school where:
● Teachers are trusted to shape how learning happens
● Relationships with students and families matter deeply
● Staff collaborate closely and contribute beyond their classrooms
Anticipated Start Date: July 2026
To Apply
Please include the following to complete your online application:
● Cover letter to Shelly Gelfand, Principal at gelfands@cja.ab.ca
● Resume highlighting professional qualifications and experience
● Copy of your valid Alberta Teaching Certificate