School Principal (Elementary/Secondary)
Administrative leader responsible for academic excellence, staff management, and school operations
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About Our Organization
We are committed to providing exceptional educational services and creating a positive learning environment for our students, staff, and community. Our organization values integrity, collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to excellence in everything we do.
Position Overview
The School Principal provides visionary leadership to ensure academic excellence, positive school culture, and effective operations. This executive administrative position requires expertise in instructional leadership, staff management, budget oversight, and strategic planning. The principal serves as the educational leader of the school, responsible for creating a safe, inclusive learning environment where all students can achieve their full potential. The role involves leading staff evaluations, managing school budgets, implementing district initiatives, and building strong relationships with students, families, staff, and community stakeholders.
Responsibilities
Staff Evaluations
- Conduct regular observations and evaluations of teaching and support staff according to district evaluation systems
- Provide timely, constructive feedback to staff members on their performance
- Develop and implement performance improvement plans for staff members as needed
- Document evaluation observations, feedback, and performance data accurately
- Support professional growth through coaching, mentoring, and professional development planning
- Ensure compliance with state and district evaluation requirements and timelines
- Participate in evaluation calibration and training to maintain consistency
- Use evaluation data to inform staffing decisions, professional development needs, and school improvement planning
Budget Management
- Develop, monitor, and manage annual budgets in alignment with district priorities and strategic goals
- Allocate resources effectively to support instructional programs, operations, and student needs
- Monitor budget expenditures and ensure fiscal responsibility and compliance
- Prepare budget reports and present financial information to stakeholders as needed
- Collaborate with district finance office on budget planning, reporting, and compliance
- Identify and pursue grant opportunities and alternative funding sources when applicable
- Ensure compliance with state and federal fiscal regulations and reporting requirements
- Make data-informed decisions about resource allocation to maximize impact on student outcomes
Leadership & Strategic Planning
- Provide visionary leadership aligned with district mission, values, and strategic goals
- Develop and implement strategic plans to improve student outcomes and school performance
- Lead change management initiatives and foster a culture of continuous improvement
- Build and maintain positive relationships with staff, students, families, and community stakeholders
- Communicate effectively with diverse audiences including staff, parents, district leadership, and community members
- Lead and participate in collaborative decision-making processes and shared leadership structures
- Manage crises and respond effectively to emergencies and challenging situations
- Represent the school/district positively in the community and at district and state-level meetings
Academic Leadership & Curriculum
- Lead the development and implementation of a rigorous, standards-aligned curriculum
- Monitor instructional practices and provide feedback to improve teaching effectiveness
- Analyze student achievement data and lead data-driven decision-making processes
- Ensure alignment with state standards, district curriculum, and educational best practices
- Support teachers in implementing evidence-based instructional strategies
- Lead professional learning communities (PLCs) and collaborative planning initiatives
School Culture & Climate
- Foster a positive, inclusive school culture that promotes student engagement and achievement
- Develop and maintain school-wide behavior expectations and discipline systems
- Address student behavior issues consistently and fairly
- Promote social-emotional learning and character development
- Celebrate student and staff achievements and successes
- Build a sense of community and belonging among all stakeholders
Student Discipline & Behavior Management
- Oversee student discipline policies and procedures in accordance with district policies and state laws
- Conduct student discipline hearings and make decisions regarding consequences
- Collaborate with families, teachers, and support staff to address student behavior concerns
- Implement restorative practices and positive behavior interventions and supports (PBIS)
- Ensure due process rights are protected in disciplinary proceedings
- Monitor and analyze discipline data to identify trends and improve systems
Parent & Community Engagement
- Build strong partnerships with families and community members
- Communicate regularly with parents through newsletters, meetings, and digital platforms
- Organize and lead parent-teacher conferences, open houses, and school events
- Respond to parent concerns and inquiries in a timely and professional manner
- Engage community partners and businesses to support school programs
- Represent the school positively in the community
Compliance & Reporting
- Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and district policies and regulations
- Complete required reports and documentation accurately and on time
- Maintain student records and ensure confidentiality and security
- Coordinate with district departments on compliance matters
- Participate in district and state-level meetings and professional development
- Stay current with changes in education law, policy, and best practices
Operations & Facilities
- Oversee day-to-day school operations and facilities management
- Coordinate with custodial, maintenance, and support staff
- Ensure school safety and emergency preparedness
- Manage school schedules, calendars, and events
- Coordinate transportation, nutrition services, and other operational functions
- Ensure facilities meet health, safety, and accessibility requirements
Required Qualifications
- Master's degree in Educational Leadership, Administration, or closely related field
- Valid state administrative credential/license (Principal or equivalent)
- Minimum of 3-5 years of successful teaching experience
- Completion of state-approved administrator preparation program
- Knowledge of curriculum, instruction, and assessment practices
- Understanding of school law, special education law, and compliance requirements
- Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
- Ability to pass background check and fingerprint clearance
- Experience with data analysis and evidence-based decision making
- Knowledge of school finance and budget management
Preferred Qualifications
- Doctorate in Educational Leadership or related field
- Previous experience as a principal or assistant principal
- Experience at the specific grade level (elementary or secondary)
- National Board Certification or advanced leadership credentials
- Training in instructional leadership, school improvement, or turnaround leadership
- Experience with diverse student populations and English language learners
- Knowledge of special education programs and compliance
- Experience with school safety and crisis management
- Bilingual skills (as applicable to district needs)
- Experience with technology integration and digital learning
Skills & Competencies
- Strong instructional leadership and curriculum expertise
- Excellent communication skills (verbal, written, and presentation)
- Data analysis and evidence-based decision making capabilities
- Conflict resolution and problem-solving skills
- Budget management and fiscal responsibility
- Staff evaluation and professional development facilitation
- Strategic planning and change management
- Cultural competency and ability to work with diverse populations
- Crisis management and emergency response
- Technology proficiency for communication, data analysis, and operations
- Time management and organizational skills
- Ability to build relationships and collaborate effectively
- Knowledge of school law, compliance, and policy
- Student-centered focus and commitment to equity
Work Environment
For Administrators
This position works primarily in school and district office settings, including private office spaces, conference rooms, and various school locations. The role involves frequent collaboration with teachers, staff, district administrators, families, and community stakeholders. The position requires attendance at evening events, parent meetings, school board meetings, and district activities. The administrator works as part of a leadership team and reports to district-level administrators. The position follows the school calendar schedule with additional responsibilities during summer months and may involve travel between school sites and district offices as needed.
For Principals
The principal works in a school office setting with frequent movement throughout the building and campus. The position requires regular attendance at evening events, weekend activities, and district meetings. The principal may need to respond to emergencies outside of regular school hours.
Physical Requirements
This role requires the ability to sit for extended periods, use a computer keyboard and mouse, and communicate effectively via phone and video conferencing. The position involves occasional standing, walking, and lifting of light objects (up to 10 pounds). Employees must have sufficient vision and hearing to perform essential job functions. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
Benefits & Perks
Standard Benefits
We offer a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, holidays, and professional development opportunities. Additional benefits may vary based on employment status and location.
In Addition to Our Standard Benefits Package
Administrative staff receive:
- Competitive salary aligned with education and experience
- Professional development opportunities and continuing education support
- School calendar schedule with extended responsibilities during summer months
- State retirement system participation
- Professional liability coverage
- Opportunities for advancement and district-level leadership roles
- Access to professional learning communities and networking opportunities
- Administrative leave and professional development funding
Legal & Compliance
Equal Opportunity Employer
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
At-Will Employment
This position is at-will, meaning either the employee or the employer may terminate employment at any time, with or without cause or notice, except as may be limited by applicable law or collective bargaining agreement.
Background Check Policy
All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a background check, which may include criminal history, employment verification, and reference checks, as permitted by applicable law.