Principal- Middle School

Principal

A Principal provides leadership, management, and supervisory skills that promote learning for each student. They lead others and stand for the ideas and values that help to develop globally competent citizens. They are stewards for learning student learning, staff learning, and parent learning. They provide a clear vision, inspiration, energy and insight for all stakeholders in an enlightening and high functioning school community.

They have a laser-like focus on instruction with special emphasis on creating a learning environment that is world focused, integrated, reflective, engaged, and full of discovery. The Principal is the conveyor of best practice, a catalyst of learning, and a protector of the whole child. He/She is attentive to habits of mind, data driven decision-making, the change process, accountability, conflict resolution, team building, and a well-organized school.

The Principal has a set of beliefs and a skill set that guides the school in day-to-day operations to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of all students, staff, and families. The principals orchestrate a collaborative learning community where students and student learning are always the central focus.

Accountability:
Reports to the Asst. Superintendent and Superintendent

Qualifications:

• Education/Certification Masters Degree in Education Leadership or Curriculum and Instruction
• Professional Educator's License in school administration
• Must have completed the evaluation modules for teachers and building administrators
• EL, Bilingual, and/or SPED endorsement preferred
• Spanish speaker preferred

Special Knowledge/

Skills:

• Thorough knowledge of curriculum and instruction and current educational trends
• Thorough knowledge of teaching effectiveness and teacher evaluation
• Knowledge of the evaluation process for building level administrators
• Understanding of adult learning theory
• Development and/or coordination of professional development
• Thorough understanding of program evaluation
• Knowledge of content in various subjects
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
• The ability to lead a school community to academic excellence
• The ability and willingness to engage in difficult conversations
• Knowledge of Illinois statutory and regulatory requirements related to curriculum and instruction
• Ability to supervise people
• Ability to plan and present information to a variety of audiences
• Experience Minimum of five years successful experience as a classroom teacher

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Instruction:
  Consistently analyze data related to teaching and learning Work collaboratively with team members to implement curriculum, instruction, and assessments Use research and data to continually evaluate instructional programs;
  Provide school wide professional development based on research and data Use research and data to make recommendations for the purchase of new instructional materials
• Continuous Improvement:
  Remain abreast of current trends in teaching, learning, and assessment by attending conferences and workshops based on school/district priorities. Conduct and/or participate in workshops, committees, and conferences designed to promote the intellectual, social, and physical welfare of students. Monitor school improvement
• Communication:
  Communicate clearly orally and in writing. Promote the mission and vision of the school and the district Maintain a close working relationship with school-based and District-level administrators to ensure information exchange, coordination of efforts, and general support for the decision making process Use a variety of communication techniques and tools to ensure the appropriate flow of information, collaborative efforts, and feedback
• District Level Planning:
  Participate in the development of program goals and instructional objectives for the district Assist in organizational analysis and development Attend board meetings when requested Provide presentations to the board and community when requested
• Other:
  Comply with district policies, as well as state and federal laws and regulations Maintain confidentiality in all aspects of the job Develop and maintain professional relationships Demonstrate professional, ethical, and responsible behavior. Serve as a role model for all campus staff Maintain a positive attitude Set high standards for self and others Other duties as assigned