School Principal: Pilgrim Lutheran School; PreK–, Chicago, IL

Position: School Principal: Pilgrim Lutheran School (PreK–8), Chicago, IL
School Principal:
Pilgrim Lutheran School (PreK–8), Chicago, IL

About Pilgrim

Founded in 1920, Pilgrim Lutheran School (part of Pilgrim Lutheran Church founded incurrently serves students in grades PreK–8. The School serves a diverse community of learners on Chicago’s North Side, combining small‑classroom attention with innovative teaching practices and a strong sense of community engagement.

Pilgrim Lutheran School is faith‑based with rigorous academics and a strong commitment to service learning. Our mission is to provide a high‑quality education within a nurturing Christian community so that each student can grow academically, spiritually, emotionally, socially, and physically. Sponsored by Pilgrim Lutheran Parish congregation, a member of the ELCA, Pilgrim equips students to make positive contributions as courageous and active members of society.

Position Summary

The Principal of Pilgrim Lutheran School is both the educational and spiritual leader, fostering academic excellence, faith development, and a caring Christian community where every child can thrive. The Principal partners with the Pastor, Board of Education, faculty, and families to advance the mission of the school.

Key responsibilities

• Leading faculty and staff in curriculum, instruction, and professional growth.

• Promoting Christian values and modeling faith‑centered leadership.

• Building strong relationships with families, the congregation, and the wider community.

• Managing school operations, outside vendors, finances, facilities, and accreditation requirements.

• Developing and executing strategic initiatives to increase student enrollment through targeted outreach, marketing, streamlined admissions processes, data‑driven recruitment strategies, and community partnerships.

• Supporting fundraising efforts.

Professional Requirements

• Valid Illinois Professional Educator License (Elementary or Middle School endorsement).

• Illinois Principal/Administrator License (or eligibility/in process).

• Minimum of 5 years of teaching and/or school administration experience.

• Demonstrated leadership, communication, and organizational skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s Degree in Educational Administration.

• Active commitment to Christian values and participation in congregational life.

• Strong relational skills and ability to partner with diverse families and staff.

• Demonstrated experience in increasing enrollment growth and retention.

Core Responsibilities

Educational Leadership

• Ensure curriculum, instruction, and assessment align with Pilgrim’s mission and high academic standards.

• Collaborate, support, and supervise teachers through regular classroom, coaching, and professional development.

• Maintain programs that nurture the whole child—academically, socially, spiritually, emotionally, and physically.

• Oversee extracurricular offerings (arts, athletics, service, technology, etc.).

• Lead accreditation, evaluation, and school improvement processes.

Faith & Community Leadership

• Model Christian faith and values through conduct, attitude, and service.

• Partner with the Pastor to integrate faith development throughout school life.

• Build strong relationships with parents, congregation, and the broader community.

• Represent Pilgrim Parish as an ambassador in church, community, and educational networks.

Administrative Leadership

• Oversee school operations, outside vendors, scheduling, facilities, safety, and compliance with city/state regulations.

• Manage budgets, financial procedures, and resource allocation in partnership with the Board and Church Treasurer.

• Collaborate with hiring committees to recruit new staff.

• Cultivate a collaborative and supportive culture.

• Ensure accurate recordkeeping (student data, attendance, assessments, state/federal reporting).

Advancement & Enrollment

• Assist in creation and implementation of recruitment efforts to retain students and increase enrollment through admissions, outreach, marketing, and public relations.

• Partner with the Church Council, Board and congregation on fundraising, grant opportunities, and community partnerships.

• Communicate school achievements through multiple channels…