Qualifications

Master’s degree in Educational Leadership, Education, Business Administration, or a related field.
Minimum of five (5) years of successful teaching experience.
Valid state Principal licensure/certification required.
Prior experience as a school principal or assistant principal preferred.
Demonstrated success in improving student achievement and academic outcomes.
Experience with data-driven instruction, MTSS frameworks, and school improvement planning.
Knowledge of AVID instructional strategies and WICOR methodologies (Writing, Inquiry, Collaboration, Organization, Reading).
Strong communication, leadership, team-building, and organizational skills.
Demonstrated ability to build a positive, high-expectations school culture.

Position Summary

The Secondary School Principal serves as the instructional and operational leader for grades 7–12 and is responsible for ensuring high-quality teaching and learning, a safe and positive school environment, and effective day-to-day school operations.

The Principal leads the implementation of the school’s academic vision and ensures alignment with state accountability standards, charter performance goals, and school improvement priorities. The Principal collaborates with the Head of School, instructional leaders, and staff to strengthen instructional practice, increase student achievement, and promote college and career readiness.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Instructional Leadership

Lead the development, implementation, and communication of the school’s instructional vision, academic goals, and strategic priorities.
Provide strong instructional leadership to ensure rigorous and engaging instruction across grades 7–12.
Ensure curriculum and instruction are aligned with state standards, assessment expectations, and charter performance goals.
Promote instructional practices that support critical thinking, student engagement, and academic rigor.
Foster a culture of continuous improvement and professional collaboration among instructional staff.

Academic Accountability

Lead the school’s efforts to improve student performance on state assessments, including EOG, EOC, and other accountability measures.
Monitor and analyze student performance data, benchmark assessments, and progress-monitoring tools to inform instructional decisions.
Ensure implementation of data-driven instructional practices across all departments and grade levels.
Oversee the development and execution of school improvement plans, strategic academic interventions, and targeted support programs.
Collaborate with instructional leaders and teachers to implement Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) that address academic and behavioral needs.
Ensure teachers utilize formative and summative assessments to adjust instruction and improve student outcomes.
Establish clear academic expectations and accountability structures for staff and students.

AVID and WICOR Implementation

Champion the implementation of AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) schoolwide.
Ensure consistent integration of WICOR instructional strategies:

Writing to learn and demonstrate understanding
Inquiry through questioning and critical thinking
Collaboration through structured academic dialogue
Organization of academic materials and learning processes
Reading for comprehension and academic discourse

Support teachers in implementing AVID methodologies that promote college and career readiness.
Facilitate professional development focused on AVID instructional strategies and WICOR integration.
Monitor classroom implementation of AVID best practices to ensure fidelity and to assess their impact on student achievement.

Staff Supervision and Development

Supervise, support, and evaluate teaching and support staff in alignment with school policies and instructional expectations.
Assist the Head of School and Director of Instruction with recruitment, selection, orientation, and evaluation of staff.
Provide ongoing coaching, feedback, and professional development opportunities to strengthen instructional practice.
Foster a collaborative environment that encourages teamwork, accountability, and professional growth.

School Operations and Management

Oversee the day-to-day operations of the school to ensure a safe, orderly, and productive learning environment.
Implement and enforce school policies, procedures, and expectations.
Promote effective student discipline practices and restorative approaches that support positive school culture.
Ensure facilities are maintained to support safety and effective instruction.

School Climate and Community Engagement

Foster a positive school climate that promotes respect, inclusion, and high expectations.
Build strong relationships with students, families, staff, and community stakeholders.
Communicate regularly with stakeholders regarding school initiatives, student progress, and academic goals.
Represent the school professionally and strengthen community partnerships that support student success.

Additional Responsibilities

Review lesson plans and observe instruction to ensure alignment with instructional goals and academic standards.
Facilitate regular staff meetings, professional learning communities (PLCs), and instructional planning sessions.
Develop and maintain a professional growth plan aligned with personal leadership goals and school priorities.
Ensure effective transition programs for incoming and advancing students.
Support the development of co-curricular and extracurricular programs that enhance student leadership and engagement.
Perform other duties as assigned by the Head of School.