Founding Academic Director

Help build one of Latin America’s most innovative schools.
Fernspring Forest School is seeking an exceptional educational leader to become our Founding Academic Director and help create a new model of education from the ground up.
Opening in September 2026, Fernspring is bringing to life a unique educational concept in Mexico, integrating the Forest School philosophy, Expeditionary Learning, project-based learning, mixed-age classrooms, craftsmanship, and authentic experiences in nature.
This is far more than a leadership position, it is an opportunity to build a school from the ground up and leave a lasting legacy that transforms education.
The Opportunity
As Founding Academic Director, you will play a key role in shaping and leading Fernspring’s academic vision, including:
* Designing and implementing a world-class educational model inspired by Expeditionary Learning and progressive education.* Building a school culture rooted in curiosity, creativity, autonomy, and meaningful learning.* Designing the curriculum, learning expeditions, and authentic assessment practices.* Coaching and developing a team of educators committed to innovation and excellence.* Leading continuous improvement and academic quality across the school.* Helping position Fernspring as a leading model of innovative education in Latin America.
Our Vision
We believe children learn best when they explore, create, investigate, and engage in meaningful real-world experiences.
Our campus is located in the forests of Guadalajara, where nature becomes the primary classroom and learning takes place through projects, expeditions, and experiences that inspire curiosity, purpose, and a lifelong love of learning.
We are privileged to be collaborating with the Center for Artistry and Scholarship, and our goal is to begin the NEASC accreditation process after our first year of operation.
Who We’re Looking For
We’re looking for someone who:
* Has experience leading innovative schools or educational initiatives.* Deeply believes in child-centered learning.* Is passionate about outdoor education, project-based learning, and educational innovation.* Enjoys creating, designing, and building rather than simply managing established systems.* Dreams of developing an educational project with international impact.
More than a school leader, we are looking for a visionary who wants to leave a lasting mark on education.
What We Offer
* USD $2,500- $3,000 per month, depending on experience.* Housing support.* International relocation assistance.* Significant professional autonomy.* The opportunity to build and lead the academic vision from its very beginning.* Long-term leadership and growth opportunities as the school expands.* A collaborative, innovative environment with a bold vision for the future of education.
Why Fernspring?
Very few educators have the opportunity to build a school from day one.
Even fewer have the chance to create an educational model that can inspire other schools and contribute to transforming education across Latin America.
If you believe education can be more human, more meaningful, and more connected to nature, we would love to hear from you.