ICSV Director Opportunity Profile
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OPPORTUNITY<br />
PROFILE<br />
DIRECTOR<br />
AN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF CHOICE WHERE EVERY STUDENT IS VALUED<br />
AND EMPOWERED WITH TRUTH AND KNOWLEDGE FOR LIFE.<br />
VIENNA, AUSTRIA
GREETINGS<br />
Dear Prospective Candidate,<br />
On behalf of the <strong>ICSV</strong> Board and the entire <strong>ICSV</strong> community, we express our sincere interest in your candidacy for<br />
the position of <strong>Director</strong> of our school.<br />
The International Christian School of Vienna strives to provide high-quality, individualized education, equipping<br />
students with Christian character to impact the nations of the world. Located a short subway ride away from the<br />
United Nations’ campus in Vienna, our school has a unique opportunity to impact the nations. Our students come<br />
from 65 countries, including children of diplomats, international business leaders, missionaries, local churches, and<br />
more. Vienna itself is a global city of influence, with a rich cultural history and an exciting future. With over 50%<br />
international residents, the nations have come to us.<br />
Over the past decade, the school has seen marked improvements, including growing the enrollment from 200 to<br />
311 students. Our academic program has been strengthened by the successful implementation of the International<br />
Baccalaureate Diploma Program, which together with our U.S. high school diploma opens the world to our graduates.<br />
We believe, however, that God is preparing the school for even greater impact in the future. In 2017, we purchased<br />
the adjacent property, more than doubling the future footprint of the school. We have worked with architects<br />
to design a state-of-the art building project that, when implemented, will help enable the school to grow to 600<br />
students and become one of the premier ACSI schools globally.<br />
The <strong>ICSV</strong> Board and <strong>Director</strong> Search Committee are praying for a uniquely qualified <strong>Director</strong> to realize this bold<br />
vision and lead the school into the future. We pray for a <strong>Director</strong> with a passion for Christ and the nations, with<br />
extensive experience in educational leadership, and with a proven track record in growing a school.<br />
We encourage you to read this <strong>Opportunity</strong> <strong>Profile</strong> and further explore our website for additional information. If you<br />
are interested in pursuing this opportunity, please reference the Process of Candidacy page to begin the application<br />
process. If you have any questions, please contact Laura Coverstone or Ed Poff (1.615.261.4623), the JobfitMatters<br />
Consultants who are assisting the International Christian School of Vienna in this search.<br />
Sincerely,<br />
Marin Kalinov<br />
Board Chair<br />
Brad Hunter<br />
Search Committee Chair
OVERVIEW<br />
Founded in 1986, the International Christian School of Vienna (<strong>ICSV</strong>) is a private Christian, day school located in<br />
Vienna, Austria and is prayerfully seeking its next <strong>Director</strong>. While <strong>ICSV</strong> was originally launched to educate the<br />
children of English-speaking missionaries who lived in or near Vienna, today the school has grown to include<br />
students from all different religious and national backgrounds. As such, <strong>ICSV</strong> is both a discipleship school and an<br />
evangelistic outreach and is strategically positioned to have a global impact for Christ.<br />
Vienna is a highly influential city, with the global headquarters of the International Atomic Energy Agency, OPEC,<br />
various UN agencies, along with 40 international organizations. Vienna is centrally located in Europe, and as the<br />
capital of Austria, is the cultural and economic hub. This makes Vienna ideal for someone with a missions-mindset<br />
and who is interested in serving at a school where the nations are flocking to <strong>ICSV</strong>’s doorstep.<br />
<strong>ICSV</strong> utilizes a United States-based curriculum with an international focus, now with International Baccalaureate®<br />
(IB) available for 11th and 12th grades. <strong>ICSV</strong>’s IB scores are outstanding compared to peer schools, with a 100% pass<br />
rate for the past three years. In fact, <strong>ICSV</strong> is one of only five IB schools in Vienna. <strong>ICSV</strong>’s strong academic program<br />
equips students for entrance into US, Austrian, and international universities. Students gain a global perspective<br />
making them well suited for the international marketplace.<br />
In recent years, <strong>ICSV</strong> has experienced significant growth and achieved substantial financial strength, attracting<br />
families who are drawn to the attentive, compassionate, and highly skilled faculty at <strong>ICSV</strong>. The student body has<br />
grown to 311 students from 65 nationalities. Students’ families come from a wide variety of backgrounds including<br />
international business, diplomatic, United Nations (UN), and missionary communities.<br />
The next <strong>Director</strong> of <strong>ICSV</strong> must possess exceptional leadership skills and a wealth of experience to effectively<br />
navigate and capitalize on the growth opportunities that continue to emerge. The new building project, allowing<br />
enrollment to double, is one of the key objectives. This includes not only working with the advancement team to<br />
raise funds for the facilities but also managing the significant changes that accompany school growth, both equally<br />
important. Stewarding the spiritual, academic, and emotional needs of the community, to ensure the flourishing of<br />
staff, faculty, and students will be key. At the same time, establishing strong connections with key stakeholders<br />
such as local government officials, pastors, and business leaders will be crucial to effectively communicate <strong>ICSV</strong>'s<br />
distinctive story, mission, and compelling vision. To effectively tackle the challenges ahead, it will be important<br />
to strike a balance between maintaining focus on the needs within the school's walls and engaging with the<br />
local community.
ABOUT <strong>ICSV</strong><br />
MISSION<br />
<strong>ICSV</strong> provides high-quality, individualized education, equipping students with Christian character<br />
to impact the nations of the world.<br />
VISION STATEMENT<br />
An international school of choice where every student is valued and empowered with truth<br />
and knowledge for life.<br />
CORE VALUES<br />
CHRIST-CENTERED – Desire for Christ to be at the center of our lives (Philippians 2:1-8)<br />
EXCELLENCE – Commitment to excellence in all that we do (Colossians 3:23)<br />
INTEGRITY – Commitment to integrity in all areas of life (1 Peter 2:12)<br />
RESPECT – Commitment to respect all people (1 Peter 2:17)<br />
SERVICE – Commitment to serve others (1 Peter 4:10-11)
OUR STORY<br />
1985 – 1992<br />
In 1985, a community of missionary families asked Black Forest Academy in Kandern, Germany, to help them start<br />
a school in Vienna. Most of the fathers from these families worked in Eastern Europe while their families lived in<br />
the safer environment of Vienna. Black Forest Academy agreed and sent Dick Derksen to Vienna to help begin the<br />
school. In 1986, the school was registered with the Wiener Stadtschulrat (Department of Education) and opened its<br />
doors to the children of these missionary families. The school, with an American curriculum, was recognized as an<br />
official school that meets the educational requirements of foreign children to the age of 16.<br />
When the school began, it met at Quellenstrasse in the 10th district. The first year, there were only 25 students. The<br />
school then moved to Kreilplatz 1/2 in the 19th district in 1992 with 156 students and 40 faculty and staff. The new<br />
site was the second floor of an old empty paper factory.<br />
1995 – 2001<br />
In 1995, the Vienna Christian School Board decided to shift from the school’s original vision of “meeting the needs<br />
of missionary families” to also include becoming an outreach “to the nations” in Vienna. Since that time, the number<br />
of international students has risen dramatically. As the school continued to grow, the VCS School Board again saw<br />
the need to move to a larger facility. Under the leadership of the director, Phil Paden, a porcelain factory was found<br />
that was available for purchase.<br />
In July 2000, the factory was purchased as the new site for Vienna Christian School. In mid-September of 2001, the<br />
school moved into the current facility at Wagramerstrasse 175/Panethgasse 6a in the 22nd district. The school was<br />
first accredited through the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) on October 15, 2001, and through<br />
Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (MSA) on January 1, 2009. The name was officially changed to<br />
International Christian School of Vienna (<strong>ICSV</strong>), and <strong>ICSV</strong> received permanent Offentlichkeitsrecht (Right of Publicity)<br />
from the Vienna Board of Education in 2005.<br />
2010 TO PRESENT<br />
In 2013, the Austrian government recognized the evangelical churches that had formed the “Free Churches in<br />
Austria” (FKÖ). The FKÖ, in turn, formed a consortium of schools. These schools align with <strong>ICSV</strong>’s Christian mission<br />
and values, so <strong>ICSV</strong> became a member of this organization in 2014. The governing Board provides <strong>ICSV</strong> with<br />
support in its mission. Also in 2013, the school’s mission statement was revised. In 2015, minor revisions were made<br />
to the school’s statement of faith and goals.<br />
In 2017, the school began the process of purchasing the adjacent land so that the school could expand. In May of<br />
2019, <strong>ICSV</strong> was listed in the Grundbuch (Land Registry) as the official owner of the Wagramerstrasse 177.<br />
Today, <strong>ICSV</strong> represents 311 students from over 65 different nationalities. It has partnered with architects to design a<br />
state-of-the-art facility to meet the needs of the 21st-century learner. The new building will be able to hold up to 600<br />
students and will contain four science labs, a double gymnasium with a stage, an outdoor space for athletic events,<br />
and several open learning commons where students can research and collaborate with their peers.
DOCTRINAL STATEMENT<br />
• WE BELIEVE the Bible to be the fully inspired, infallible, inerrant, and authoritative Word of God.<br />
• WE BELIEVE there is one God, eternally existent in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.<br />
• WE BELIEVE in both the deity and the humanity of our Lord Jesus Christ, His virgin birth, His sinless life, in His<br />
miracles, His vicarious and atoning death through His shed blood, in His burial, His bodily resurrection, His<br />
ascension to the right hand of God the Father, and in His personal return to power and glory.<br />
• WE BELIEVE each human being is spiritually lost, sinful and utterly unable to save himself.<br />
• WE BELIEVE explicit faith in Jesus Christ and His finished work and regeneration by the Holy Spirit are absolutely<br />
essential for the salvation of lost and sinful man.<br />
• WE BELIEVE in the present ministry of the Holy Spirit, whose indwelling and filling enables the Christian to live<br />
a godly life.<br />
• WE BELIEVE in the bodily resurrection and judgment of all mankind. Believers are resurrected to enjoy eternal<br />
life with God, and unbelievers are resurrected to eternal punishment.<br />
• WE BELIEVE all who have confessed faith in the risen and ascended Son of God are members of Christ's invisible<br />
and universal church. We also believe that the local church plays an essential role in the plan and purpose<br />
of God.<br />
• WE BELIEVE in the personal return of the Lord Jesus Christ.<br />
• WE BELIEVE the primary purpose of man is to know God, glorify Him, and enjoy Him forever.<br />
• WE BELIEVE that God wonderfully and immutably creates each person as either male or female, and that these<br />
two distinct, complementary sexes together reflect the image and nature of God.<br />
• WE BELIEVE that God created marriage to be exclusively the union of one man and one woman, and that<br />
intimate sexual activity is to occur exclusively within that union.<br />
In accordance with <strong>ICSV</strong>’s Doctrinal Statement, the school affirms that every student is an image-bearer of God.<br />
“We believe that every person must be afforded compassion, love, kindness, respect, and dignity (Mark 12:28-31;<br />
Luke 6:31). Hateful and harassing behavior or attitudes directed toward any individual are to be repudiated and are<br />
not in accord with Scripture nor the doctrines of <strong>ICSV</strong>.” We also believe that God wonderfully and immutably creates<br />
each person as male or female. These two distinct, complementary genders reflect the image and nature of God<br />
(Genesis 1:26-27). Therefore, students will be accepted, educated, and addressed using their biological sex (male<br />
or female) as determined at birth.” (All Staff Handbook, pg. 6)<br />
FINAL AUTHORITY FOR MATTERS OF BELIEF & CONDUCT<br />
The <strong>ICSV</strong> Doctrinal Statement does not exhaust the extent of <strong>ICSV</strong>’s beliefs. The Bible itself, as the<br />
inspired and infallible Word of God that speaks with final authority concerning truth, morality, and<br />
the proper conduct of mankind, is the final source of all that <strong>ICSV</strong> believes. For purposes of <strong>ICSV</strong>’s<br />
faith, doctrine, policy, and discipline, the School Board is <strong>ICSV</strong>’s final interpretive authority on the<br />
Bible’s application.
PROFILE OF A GRADUATE<br />
<strong>ICSV</strong> is both a discipleship school and an evangelistic outreach. Students from all different religious backgrounds<br />
attend <strong>ICSV</strong>. For this reason, the graduate profile and its corresponding benchmarks represent what the ideal <strong>ICSV</strong><br />
graduate/student would look like, not a list of graduate outcomes that all students must achieve.<br />
1.<br />
2.<br />
3.<br />
4.<br />
SPIRITUAL GOAL<br />
The graduate of <strong>ICSV</strong> will be developing a personal relationship with Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord through a<br />
recognition of his or her own spiritual nature, absolute dependence, moral inability, and the recognition of how<br />
the Trinitarian God fulfills each need, leading to action which fulfills God’s design in every sphere of life.<br />
ACADEMIC GOAL<br />
Having received a high quality, cross-disciplinary education, a graduate of <strong>ICSV</strong> will be a lifelong learner who is<br />
equipped with a biblically based philosophy of education and is able to integrate knowledge across all subject<br />
areas and apply these principles to life.<br />
CHARACTER GOAL<br />
The <strong>ICSV</strong> graduate will have built and developed biblically based character traits, applying them in all aspects<br />
of life and ministry to the glory of God.<br />
COMMUNITY GOAL<br />
The <strong>ICSV</strong> graduate will recognize the Scriptural responsibility and importance of being involved in community by<br />
following Christ’s example, in that he/she will be equipped to participate in areas of community such as family,<br />
school, and church, both locally and globally, and will carry out those responsibilities with respect and integrity.
<strong>ICSV</strong> AT-A-GLANCE<br />
YEAR<br />
ENROLLMENT<br />
2018-2019 281<br />
2019-2020 320<br />
2020-2021 314<br />
2021-2022 285<br />
2022-2023 311<br />
FACULTY<br />
16 TEACHERS IN ELEMENTARY<br />
36 TEACHERS IN SECONDARY<br />
(MIDDLE SCHOOL AND HIGH SCHOOL)<br />
ENROLLMENT 2022 -2023<br />
13 PRIMARY (K)<br />
127 HIGH<br />
SCHOOL (9 TH -12 TH )<br />
TUITION<br />
€<br />
PRIMARY/K €14,232<br />
1 ST -5 TH €14,280<br />
6 TH -8 TH €16,664<br />
9 TH -10 TH €17,884<br />
11 TH €17,960<br />
12 TH €18,292<br />
89 ELEMENTARY<br />
SCHOOL (1 ST -5 TH )<br />
TOTAL<br />
ENROLLMENT<br />
311<br />
82 MIDDLE<br />
SCHOOL (6 TH -8 TH )<br />
FINANCIAL AID<br />
$<br />
IN 2022-2023, 35% OF THE STUDENT<br />
BODY RECEIVED FINANCIAL AID.<br />
65 DIFFERENT NATIONALITIES REPRESENTED IN THE STUDENT BODY. FOR A COMPLETE LIST, SEE THE<br />
MOST RECENT ANNUAL REPORT HERE.<br />
COLLEGE MATRICULATION<br />
CLASS OF 2022 (36 GRADUATES): 78% FOUR-YEAR COLLEGE PLACEMENT (SEVERAL<br />
GRADUATES CHOSE TO COMPLETE THEIR MANDATORY MILITARY SERVICE PRIOR TO<br />
BEGINNING UNIVERSITY. THE NORM FOR COLLEGE PLACEMENT IS APPROXIMATELY 85%.)<br />
A SAMPLE OF UNIVERSITIES WHERE <strong>ICSV</strong> STUDENTS HAVE RECEIVED COLLEGE ACCEPTANCES<br />
IS BELOW. THE FULL LIST MAY BE FOUND HERE.<br />
Austria<br />
IMC FACHHOCHSCHULE KREMS<br />
MODUL UNIVERSITY<br />
WEBSTER PRIVATE UNIVERSITY<br />
VIENNA<br />
U.K.<br />
UNIVERSITY OF BIRMINGHAM<br />
UNIVERSITY OF KENT<br />
UNIVERSITY OF LEEDS<br />
UNIVERSITY OF NOTTINGHAM<br />
Other<br />
ESSEC - FRANCE<br />
IE UNIVERSITY – SPAIN<br />
U.S.<br />
DALLAS BAPTIST UNIVERSITY (TX)<br />
PENN STATE UNIVERSITY (PA)<br />
REGENT UNIVERSITY (VA)<br />
TAYLOR UNIVERSITY (IN)<br />
The Netherlands<br />
ERASMUS UNIVERSITY OF ROTTERDAM<br />
THE HAGUE UNIVERSITY<br />
UNIVERSITY OF UTRECH
KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS (KPIS):<br />
<strong>ICSV</strong>’S INDIVIDUALIZED EDUCATION<br />
PERCENTAGE OF ELL STUDENTS<br />
PRIMARY<br />
GRADE 1<br />
GRADE 2<br />
GRADE 3<br />
GRADE 4<br />
GRADE 5<br />
GRADE 6<br />
GRADE 7<br />
GRADE 8<br />
GRADE 9<br />
GRADE 10<br />
GRADE 11<br />
GRADE 12<br />
0%<br />
9%<br />
16%<br />
33%<br />
26%<br />
30%<br />
21%<br />
22%<br />
24%<br />
22%<br />
23%<br />
23%<br />
34%<br />
PERCENTAGE OF STUDENTS<br />
ACHIEVING PROJECTED GROWTH<br />
(COVID YEAR)<br />
45%<br />
READING<br />
74%<br />
<strong>ICSV</strong> CHOSEN BENCHMARK IS APPROXIMATELY 30%.<br />
52%<br />
LANGUAGE<br />
PERCENTAGE OF LEARNING<br />
SUPPORT STUDENTS<br />
MATH<br />
61%<br />
PRIMARY<br />
0%<br />
GRADE 7<br />
22%<br />
SCIENCE<br />
GRADE 1<br />
11%<br />
GRADE 8<br />
22%<br />
<strong>ICSV</strong> CHOSEN BENCHMARK IS 60%.<br />
GRADE 2<br />
5%<br />
GRADE 9<br />
9%<br />
GRADE 3<br />
7%<br />
GRADE 10<br />
7%<br />
GRADE 4<br />
9%<br />
GRADE 11<br />
3%<br />
GRADE 5<br />
8%<br />
GRADE 12<br />
3%<br />
GRADE 6<br />
24%
KPIs: <strong>ICSV</strong>’S HIGH QUALITY EDUCATION<br />
82% OF <strong>ICSV</strong> STUDENT<br />
SCORES ABOVE THE NORM<br />
45% OF <strong>ICSV</strong><br />
TEACHERS HAVE<br />
ADVANCED DEGREES<br />
33% IN ELEMENTARY<br />
50% IN SECONDARY<br />
Benchmark: NCES total 36%, ES 29%,<br />
Secondary 43% in US in private schools.<br />
Average <strong>ICSV</strong> student scores above the norm:<br />
<strong>ICSV</strong> scored above US and international norms<br />
on all MAP tests at all grade levels (math, science,<br />
language usage, reading).<br />
92% OF PARENTS SAY<br />
CHILDREN FEEL SAFE AND<br />
FREE FROM BULLYING<br />
82% OF ALUMNI<br />
INDICATE THEY WERE WELL<br />
PREPARED FOR COLLEGE<br />
2020 survey (2.6/4); benchmark — EdSource<br />
College & Career Readiness Survey found<br />
59.6% of US students feel ready for collegelevel<br />
courses.<br />
2020 survey — 92% (3.3/4); benchmark 2017<br />
survey in US private vs public schools: 78.9%<br />
not bullied public; 83.9% not bullied private.
IB DIPLOMA PASS RATES & STATS<br />
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) award grades ranging from 7 (the highest) to 1. The<br />
highest accumulated point total in the IB DP is 45. The table below shows how <strong>ICSV</strong> students performed compared<br />
to their contemporaries taking the diploma programme across the globe.<br />
<strong>ICSV</strong> VS. GLOBAL AVERAGE<br />
HIGHEST<br />
POINT<br />
<strong>ICSV</strong><br />
GLOBAL<br />
AVERAGE<br />
<strong>ICSV</strong><br />
GLOBAL<br />
AVERAGE<br />
<strong>ICSV</strong><br />
2023 2022 2021<br />
GLOBAL<br />
AVERAGE<br />
DIPLOMA MEAN GRADE 7 5.01 4.84 5.75 5.12 5.35 5.19<br />
DIPLOMA AVERAGE<br />
TOTAL POINTS<br />
45 31.71 30.24 36 31.98 33 33.02<br />
DIPLOMA PASS RATE (%) 100 79.3 100 85.85 100 88.96<br />
SAT SCORES<br />
YEAR<br />
NUMBER OF <strong>ICSV</strong><br />
STUDENT TESTERS<br />
TOTAL SCORE MATH ERW<br />
2021 5 1106 544 562<br />
2020 6 1138 540 598<br />
2019 15 1103 538 565<br />
EQUIPPING STUDENTS WITH CHRISTIAN CHARACTER<br />
96% OF PARENTS INDICATING<br />
THAT THEY HAVE SEEN A NOTICEABLE<br />
POSITIVE CHANGE IN THEIR CHILDREN<br />
INCLUDES SOMEWHAT 76.3% AGREE OR<br />
COMPLETELY AGREE 3.1/4.0. NO BENCHMARK<br />
(2020 SURVEY).
<strong>ICSV</strong> AT-A-GLANCE<br />
IMPACTING THE WORLD<br />
65 COUNTRIES<br />
REPRESENTED AT <strong>ICSV</strong><br />
MEMBERSHIPS<br />
• ASSOCIATION OF CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS INTERNATIONAL<br />
(ACCREDITING BODY)<br />
• MIDDLE STATES ASSOCIATION OF COLLEGES AND SCHOOLS<br />
(ACCREDITING BODY)<br />
• INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB) WORLD SCHOOL<br />
• SCHULAMT FREIKIRCHEN IN ÖSTERREICH (FKÖ)<br />
(FREE CHURCHES IN AUSTRIA)<br />
• ASSOCIATION OF CENTRAL EUROPEAN SCHOOLS (ACES)<br />
• WIDA CONSORTIUM<br />
• EDUCATIONAL COLLABORATIVE FOR INTERNATIONAL<br />
SCHOOLS (ECIS)<br />
• CHILD SAFETY AND PROTECTION NETWORK<br />
ATHLETICS<br />
Fall Sports: HIGH SCHOOL BOYS SOCCER, HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS SOCCER, MIDDLE<br />
SCHOOL BOYS SOCCER, MIDDLE SCHOOL GIRLS SOCCER, HIGH SCHOOL BOYS VOLLEYBALL,<br />
HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS VOLLEYBALL<br />
Winter Sports: HIGH SCHOOL BOYS BASKETBALL, HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS BASKETBALL,<br />
MIDDLE SCHOOL BOYS BASKETBALL, MIDDLE SCHOOL BOYS BASKETBALL<br />
Spring Sports: HIGH SCHOOL TRACK AND FIELD, MIDDLE SCHOOL TRACK AND FIELD,<br />
MIDDLE SCHOOL GIRLS VOLLEYBALL, HIGH SCHOOL AND MIDDLE SCHOOL GOLF<br />
C<br />
L<br />
U<br />
B<br />
S<br />
CO-CURRICULAR CLUBS AND ACTIVITIES<br />
High School: ART TRIP, CLASS TRIPS, ROMANIA SERVICE TRIP, CAS CLUBS (CHESS, MATH, PING PONG,<br />
WEIGHT TRAINING), CLASS-SPONSORED ACTIVITIES (FUNDRAISING AND EVENTS), COFFEEHAUS, STUDENT<br />
GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION, STUDENT LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE, THE BEAK (SCHOOL NEWSPAPER),<br />
BOOK DRIVE, CHOIR, HONOR CHOIR, DRAMA, MUSICAL PRODUCTION, SPORTS, SPRING INTERNATIONAL<br />
FESTIVAL, PRAISE NIGHTS, SPIRITUAL EMPHASIS WEEK, LIP SYNC, TALENT SHOW, PROM, SENIOR CLASS<br />
TRIP, IB ART DISPLAY, CHRISTMAS AND SPRING CONCERTS, PEP RALLIES, SPIRIT WEEK<br />
Middle School: CLASS TRIPS, CAS CLUBS, CLASS-SPONSORED ACTIVITIES, CHOIR, DRAMA, MUSICAL<br />
PRODUCTION, SPORTS, SPIRIT DAYS, SPRING INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL, PRAISE NIGHTS, SPIRITUAL<br />
EMPHASIS WEEK, LIP SYNC, TALENT SHOW, CHRISTMAS AND SPRING CONCERTS, PEP RALLIES, GRADE<br />
EIGHT CELEBRATION, SPIRIT WEEK<br />
Elementary School: AFTER-SCHOOL CARE, CLUBS (SOCCER, GOLF, CHESS, ART, DANCE, DRUMMING,<br />
GARDENING, SEWING, ETC.), CLASS TRIPS, SPIRIT DAYS AND WEEK, SPRING INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL,<br />
PRAISE NIGHTS, SPIRITUAL EMPHASIS WEEK, LIP SYNC, TALENT SHOW, ICE SKATING, CHRISTMAS AND<br />
SPRING CONCERTS, PEP RALLIES, TYPING CLUB COMPETITION, CLASS HOUSE COMPETITION, BACK TO<br />
SCHOOL NIGHT, CHRISTMAS MARKET TRIP, MOTARIK PARK FIELD TRIP, END OF YEAR CELEBRATION
THE POSITION<br />
Hilfsverein der Internationalen Christlichen Schulen (“Verein“), represented by the Board, is the owner and operator<br />
of the International Christian School of Vienna. The Board appoints the <strong>Director</strong> to serve as the spiritual, academic,<br />
and executive leader of the school. The <strong>Director</strong> reports to, is accountable to, and is assessed by the School Board.<br />
The Board adopted a policy-based approach to provide a framework and guidelines for the work to be executed by<br />
the Executive <strong>Director</strong>.<br />
With the assistance of the School Administration, the <strong>Director</strong> is responsible for the entire organization and effective<br />
operation of <strong>ICSV</strong> and for the general administration of all instructional, business, or other operations of <strong>ICSV</strong>, while<br />
bearing in mind the legal requirements regarding businesses and educational matters in Vienna, Austria.<br />
Currently the direct reports to the <strong>Director</strong> are the following: Finance/HR Manager, Elementary Principal, Secondary<br />
Principal, Office Manager, Advancement <strong>Director</strong>, and Facilities and IT Coordinator.<br />
<strong>ICSV</strong> ORGANIZATIONAL CHART<br />
VEREIN<br />
(REPRESENTED BY<br />
THE BOARD)<br />
DIRECTOR<br />
FINANCE/HR<br />
MANAGER<br />
ELEMENTARY<br />
PRINCIPAL<br />
SECONDARY<br />
PRINCIPAL<br />
OFFICE<br />
MANAGER<br />
ADVANCEMENT<br />
DIRECTOR<br />
FACILITIES &<br />
IT COORDINATOR
MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES<br />
• Being the educational leader of the school, striving for educational excellence and continued development in<br />
light of educational market developments<br />
• Provides spiritual formation and pastoral leadership of faculty and staff<br />
• Implementing and promoting the <strong>ICSV</strong> Mission, Vision, and Core Values<br />
• Developing business strategy<br />
• Being responsible for the efficient administration and overall operation of the school<br />
• Being overall responsible for the finances and budget setting of the school<br />
• Overall responsible for Human Resources, for recruitment and retention of faculty and staff<br />
• Complying with all educational, financial, and legal requirements of Austrian Law<br />
• Complying with the by-laws of the school and the Board’s Executive Limitations, Board/<strong>Director</strong>s Linkage and<br />
Ends policies<br />
• Regular reports to the School Board<br />
• Acting as ambassador for <strong>ICSV</strong>, representing the school to external partners (e.g., Austrian Educational and<br />
Public Authorities, local churches, the international and diplomatic community in Vienna, accreditation<br />
bodies, etc.)<br />
• Being responsible for external affairs, which includes Visas and work permissions for staff, appropriate<br />
relationships with the Stadtschulrat, government departments, and other international schools<br />
• Being responsible for marketing and promotion of <strong>ICSV</strong><br />
• Being responsible to follow and operate according to the Board policies<br />
• Being responsible for the school’s properties and facilities
SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES<br />
SPIRITUAL LEADERSHIP<br />
• Oversees the spiritual formation of faculty and staff<br />
• Implements and promotes the <strong>ICSV</strong> Mission, Vision, and Core Values<br />
STAFF LEADERSHIP<br />
• Oversees ongoing recruitment of, retention of, and when needed, dismissal of faculty and staff<br />
• Ensures faculty and staff obtain adequate visas and work permissions<br />
• Cultivates positive relationships with faculty and staff<br />
• Oversees <strong>ICSV</strong> Human Resources<br />
EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP<br />
• Ensures a Christian worldview is taught in all classes<br />
• Strives for educational excellence keeping in mind educational market developments<br />
• Strives for inclusion of students with differing learning abilities, including ELL<br />
ADMINISTRATIVE LEADERSHIP<br />
• Oversees the efficient administration and overall operation of the school<br />
• Complies with all educational, financial, and legal requirements of Austrian Law<br />
• Ensures all needed accreditations are maintained and manages the renewal accreditation process<br />
• Oversees <strong>ICSV</strong> properties and facilities<br />
• Oversees marketing, PR, and promotion of <strong>ICSV</strong><br />
• Represents <strong>ICSV</strong> to the Stadtschulrat, government departments, and other authorities<br />
FINANCIAL LEADERSHIP<br />
• Develops and implements a strategic plan<br />
• Drafts budget in cooperation with Finance Manager and Board<br />
• Ensures that all financial decisions are made consistent with approved budget<br />
BOARD RELATIONSHIPS<br />
• Complies with all School Board Policies and Verein By-laws<br />
• Reports regularly to the School Board and attends all meetings<br />
• Cultivates positive relationships with Board members<br />
CONSTITUENT RELATIONSHIPS<br />
• Represents <strong>ICSV</strong> to external partners, including ACSI, other international schools, the missionary/local church<br />
community, the international and diplomatic community, and the host culture
QUALIFICATIONS & KEY COMPETENCIES<br />
THE DIRECTOR SHALL:<br />
• Be a born-again Christian, of good moral character, and of executive ability<br />
• Be passionate for missions and spreading the Gospel to the nations<br />
• Be passionate about Christian education and spiritually leading the school<br />
• Be in full agreement with the following <strong>ICSV</strong> statements: Mission Statement, Core Values Statement, Doctrinal<br />
Statement, Statement of Educational Philosophy, Commitment to Unity, and Statement on Creation<br />
• Have at least a master’s degree in the field of education<br />
• Have an A.C.S.I. certification in Educational Administration<br />
• Have a sound understanding of school management and at least two years’ experience in educational<br />
administration<br />
• Provide professional and pastoral leadership to administration and staff<br />
• Have overseas/cross-cultural experience<br />
• Have willingness to work across denominations<br />
KEY COMPETENCIES<br />
• Creativity<br />
• Problem solving skills<br />
• Resourcefulness<br />
• Verbal and written communication skills in English<br />
• Interpersonal and social skills<br />
• Public speaking skills<br />
• Business management skills<br />
• Great organizational skills<br />
• Strong leadership skills<br />
• Intercultural competence<br />
• Fundraising abilities<br />
• Strategic and analytical approach to any given task<br />
• Self-motivation and initiative<br />
• Systemic and holistic thinking<br />
• Reliability and confidentiality
EXPECTATIONS OF THE DIRECTOR<br />
Successful leadership in any educational institution is judged by how well its leader meets the expectations of its<br />
Board, meets the needs of its students, and responds to the input of its faculty, administration, and other constituent<br />
groups. In a recent survey, respondents from a cross section of the community named the top three priorities for<br />
the next <strong>Director</strong> to 1.) facilitate the academic performance of the students, 2.) expand or improve our facilities, and<br />
3.) strengthen the spiritual development of the students.<br />
Following are key goals identified by the current Board for the next five years. Some of these goals may be<br />
accomplished through the team, but ultimately the <strong>Director</strong> will be responsible for ensuring they are met. (The next<br />
<strong>Director</strong> will also have the ability to shape the strategic goals of <strong>ICSV</strong>.)<br />
1.<br />
2.<br />
3.<br />
4.<br />
5.<br />
As the spiritual leader of the school, the <strong>Director</strong> will encourage and build up the spiritual life of <strong>ICSV</strong> faculty<br />
and families through regular writing and speaking of devotions and messages. The <strong>Director</strong> will oversee<br />
the integration of Christian faith in the classroom on a daily basis while also ensuring the implementation of<br />
supportive training measures.<br />
The <strong>Director</strong> will develop the next 5-year strategic plan for <strong>ICSV</strong>. This will include initiatives and programs<br />
identified in the Fall 2023 ACSI Accreditation Process and other research. For example, one such initiative<br />
might be to enhance Learning Differences services at <strong>ICSV</strong>.<br />
The <strong>Director</strong> will steward the construction and growth of <strong>ICSV</strong> from 311 to 600 as the new building permits while<br />
shepherding the culture closely through the change. A key indicator of this culture protection will be that IB<br />
scores remain high, graduation rates remain high, and the number of Christian families at <strong>ICSV</strong> remains high.<br />
Along with the Advancement team, the <strong>Director</strong> will shape a fundraising plan that supports a significant capital<br />
campaign. For more on the capital campaign, see BUILDING HOPE STATEMENT.<br />
The <strong>Director</strong> will develop partnerships and relationships with local churches, schools, and international and<br />
diplomatic communities in Vienna. The <strong>Director</strong> will also utilize the energy and ideas of parents through<br />
cooperation with the parent community.<br />
6.<br />
The <strong>Director</strong> will focus on the care, retention, and professional development of high-quality, professional,<br />
mission-minded, and caring staff and faculty who feel supported, valued, and fairly compensated.
LIVING IN VIENNA, AUSTRIA<br />
With a population just under 2 million, the beloved city of Vienna offers a blend<br />
of tradition, music, and enduring charm. Vienna is a city with a rich heritage and<br />
an exciting future. Mercer has rated Vienna #1 CITY WORLDWIDE IN QUALITY<br />
OF LIFE FOR 10 YEARS RUNNING. Vienna is a highly influential city, serving<br />
as the global headquarters of the International Atomic Energy Agency, OPEC,<br />
various UN agencies, along with 40 international organizations.<br />
Vienna lies in the northeastern corner of Austria, between the foothills<br />
of the Alps and the Carpathians, where the Danube River runs through the<br />
mountains. Known for its green, rolling vineyards as well as its magnificent<br />
imperial buildings, Vienna’s artistic and intellectual legacy was shaped by<br />
residents including Mozart, Beethoven, and Sigmund Freud.<br />
Today’s cityscape is characterized by the abundance of Baroque buildings<br />
created mostly under the rule of Empress Maria Theresia (1740 - 1780) and Franz<br />
Joseph (1848 – 1916). One such example is St. Stephen’s Cathedral. As one<br />
of the chief Gothic buildings of Europe, St. Stephen's Cathedral is the symbol<br />
of Vienna and also the very center of the city. At 136 meters in height, it is the<br />
tallest church in Austria. Many grand buildings and imposing palaces are the<br />
legacy of the Habsburg Empire. The Schönbrunn Palace served as the summer<br />
residence of emperors, and Empress Sisi in particular was fond of strolling<br />
through the splendid palace grounds. The gardens of the Baroque Belvedere<br />
Palace, built as the summer residence for Prince Eugene of Savoy, are striking<br />
for their tiered fountains and sculptures.<br />
Vienna is well known as the world’s capital of music. More famous composers<br />
have lived in Vienna than in any other city. Vienna is home to the Vienna<br />
Philharmonic Orchestra, one of the best orchestras in the world. The Vienna<br />
Boys’ Choir – the world’s foremost children’s choral group - has inspired<br />
music lovers around the world since 1498. Vienna is a city filled with culture:<br />
100 museums, 250 galleries for contemporary art, over 15,000 concerts each<br />
year, 80 festivals, 10,000 seats in concert halls, three opera houses, 120 stages<br />
for music and theater, 28 palaces, and 163 city palaces. The world’s largest<br />
collections of works by Gustav Klimt, Egon Schiele, and Bruegel are unique<br />
attractions.<br />
Vienna's high quality of life is known all over the world. The public transportation<br />
system is remarkable, clean, and affordable. Countless parks and gardens,<br />
the Viennese water and successful projects in the public sector make the city<br />
so livable. Vienna is a paradise for hikers and mountain bikers, with 11 trails<br />
within the city limits. With 900 parks and green spaces, countless meadows,<br />
woods, and fields, Vienna is one of the world’s greenest major cities. In fact,<br />
53% of the municipal area is made up of green space. Vienna also has a<br />
flourishing agriculture sector: around 33% of the green space and 15% of Vienna<br />
is dedicated to farming. It is easy to find even Michelin-starred cuisine at a<br />
reasonable price. For those seeking dining experiences that are a bit more<br />
down-to-earth, countless restaurants, pubs, traditional Viennese beisls, and<br />
other eateries await hungry guests. It is no surprise that in 2022 renowned<br />
British news magazine, The Economist, awarded Vienna the well-deserved title:<br />
“The World’s Most Liveable City.”
EMPLOYMENT FAQS<br />
VISA PROCESS<br />
As an employer, <strong>ICSV</strong> applies for a so-called “Red-White-Red Card” on behalf of the employee and a “Red White<br />
Red Plus Card” for spouses and dependents. It is up to governmental agencies to approve the visa, which is why it<br />
is crucial the employee meet all requirements laid out by the Austrian Public Employment Service and the Municipal<br />
Department for Immigration and Citizenship. To find out if you meet the basic qualifications required, click HERE.<br />
(It typically takes between 3-7 months for the visa process to be completed.)<br />
1.<br />
2.<br />
3.<br />
Citizens from the EU/EEA countries don’t need visas or work permits. However, they have to apply for<br />
permanent residence within 4 months after arriving in the country.<br />
Citizens from non-EU/EEA countries need a work permit and a residence permit for Austria. <strong>ICSV</strong> assists<br />
future employees through the process of obtaining these.<br />
The “Red-White-Red” card is a residency permit option for highly skilled workers who found employment in<br />
Austria. This document will allow you to stay up to 2 years in Austria with the possibility of renewal every 3<br />
years. (Note: This is the type of VISA the <strong>Director</strong> would likely obtain.)<br />
HEALTHCARE<br />
Employees, including their spouses and dependents, are automatically medically insured through the Regional<br />
Health Insurance Fund. For an overview of the benefits, click HERE.<br />
TUITION DISCOUNT<br />
<strong>ICSV</strong> grants substantial tuition discounts to the children of staff members according to the tuition waiver policy.<br />
HOUSING<br />
<strong>ICSV</strong> offers assistance with housing, ranging from finding an apartment to signing a rental contract.<br />
AUSTRIAN CULTURE<br />
The “Vienna Orientation” is meant to help <strong>ICSV</strong> new hires and their families acclimate to Vienna. Various staff<br />
members volunteer to take new colleagues around – be it to grocery or furniture stores, to church, to must-see places<br />
in Vienna, or simply to have them over for a meal in their home. Connecting with colleagues means connecting with<br />
people who have been there before and can, therefore, offer some invaluable tips. Creating bonds outside work is<br />
also important, and one of the most effective avenues of doing so is through connecting with a church community.<br />
SPEAKING GERMAN<br />
<strong>ICSV</strong> encourages teachers to learn basic German prior to relocating to Vienna. Once in Vienna, <strong>ICSV</strong> actively<br />
supports all endeavors to learn German by offering German classes after school. It is highly desirable for the <strong>Director</strong><br />
to know or learn German, though not absolutely required.<br />
SAFETY<br />
Vienna is relatively – even remarkably – safe for a city approaching 2 million inhabitants.<br />
TRANSPORTATION<br />
The public transport system in Vienna is inexpensive, frequent, fast, clean, efficient, relatively safe, and rarely<br />
overcrowded. Vienna is a relatively flat city that displays a love for the bicycle with its spider web of bike lanes<br />
weaving throughout the city. Buying a bike to get around is highly recommended. Meanwhile, for 1€ a day (with an<br />
annual ticket), you can zoom around the city on the well-connected circuit of buses, trams, and subways as much<br />
as you want.
PROCESS OF CANDIDACY<br />
If you sense that the gifts and experience God has given you may be a good fit for the position of <strong>Director</strong> of the<br />
International Christian School of Vienna, we invite you to begin the inquiry process. Inquiries and expressions of<br />
interest regarding this search may be forwarded to Laura Coverstone at JobfitMatters Executive Search (615.261.4623)<br />
and will remain confidential.<br />
Please submit the following for review:<br />
1. A current resume<br />
2. Responses to the following essay prompts:<br />
• Describe your testimony of faith in Jesus Christ. How is God using you in your work, in your church, and in your<br />
community? How has your relationship with Jesus shaped your career and influenced your decision to apply<br />
for this position?<br />
• Describe your experience with Christian education, both personally and professionally. How would you define<br />
the marks of “educational excellence” in a 21st century Christian school?<br />
• Why are you interested in serving <strong>ICSV</strong>?<br />
• Using what you have learned about <strong>ICSV</strong> from the <strong>ICSV</strong> website, <strong>Opportunity</strong> <strong>Profile</strong>, and any other research<br />
you may have conducted, describe how your life, career, and leadership development have equipped you to<br />
lead and grow <strong>ICSV</strong>.<br />
3. Provide the names and contact information (phone number and email address) of four references who know you and<br />
your career well enough to comment on your suitability for this position. (Note: References will only be contacted<br />
after we have received your permission to do so later in the candidacy process.)<br />
Submit this information in one document or PDF to:<br />
LAURA COVERSTONE<br />
Practice Leader and Senior Consultant<br />
JobfitMatters Executive Search<br />
resumes@jobfitmatters.com<br />
Phone: 615.261.4623<br />
Please include “<strong>ICSV</strong> DIRECTOR” in the email subject line.<br />
Note: Please do not be overly concerned with brevity in this package of materials. While we are not seeking large<br />
volumes of content, we request that you provide sufficient relevant information that best reflects your fit for this<br />
role and the strengths you bring to the candidacy.