Woodlawn Preschool Principal

Woodlawn Preschool Principal )

Starting Date: Jul 1, 2026

Des Moines Public Schools is accepting applications from dynamic leaders ready to innovate and help support our efforts in Reimagining Education as the Woodlawn Preschool Principal for the 26-27 school year.

The salary range represents the minimum to the mid-point of the salary range. Candidates offered employment will be compensated based on skills, work experience, and education. This position will also qualify for a 14% Tax Sheltered Annuity (TSA) in addition to the base salary.

Des Moines Public Schools offers single and family health benefits at no cost to all employees and up to $6,000 towards relocation costs.

Job Title: Principal:
Pre K-12th Grade

Department: Teaching and Learning

Reports to: Director of Schools

Highest Level Supervised: Associate Principal

Job Summary: The Principal serves as an instructional and administrative leader and is responsible for ensuring the academic success and well-being of all students. Guided by the principles of the Iowa Standards for School Leaders (ISSL) and the district’s vision, mission, and goals, the Principal provides visionary leadership; oversees curriculum, instruction, assessment, and school operations. This position requires continuous use of independent judgment.

• Develop, communicate, and sustain a shared mission, vision, and core values focused on high-quality education and the academic success and well‑being of every student.
• Lead culturally responsive practices that promote inclusive learning environments and equitable access to educational opportunities, resources, and supports for all students.
• Oversee the implementation of curriculum and instructional practices. Provide ongoing feedback, coaching, and professional development opportunities for staff.
• Promote the effective use of formative and summative assessment data to inform instruction and school improvement efforts. Use data to identify, monitor, and address disparities in academic outcomes, discipline, attendance, and access to programs.
• Collaborate with school staff, families, and community partners to address student safety, mental health, and overall well‑being.
• Supervise and evaluate teaching staff and other building employees. Encourage leadership development and continuous learning among school personnel.
• Foster a collaborative culture focused on shared responsibility for student success. Support professional learning communities (PLC) and collaborative practices, reflective thinking, and continuous improvement.
• Communicate effectively and transparently with families regarding student learning, school initiatives, and expectations.
• Manage the operations, budget, and resources efficiently and responsibly.
• Act ethically and with integrity in all professional responsibilities and decision‑making. Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws; board policies; and district procedures.
• Maintain professional learning and growth through professional organizations, seminars, coursework, and collaboration.
• Other duties, as assigned.

• Education:
  
  Master’s degree in School Administration.
• Work Experience:
  
  Three years as a district or building administrator or an associate principal.
• Licensure or Certification:
  Administrator license with evaluator approval.

• Knowledge in current educational research related to curriculum and instruction issues.
• Effective written and oral communication and presentation techniques.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and delegate them when appropriate.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Strong supervisory and leadership skills.
• Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and commitment to quality and accuracy.
• Excellent time‑management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
• Maintain confidentiality.
• Attend work on a prompt and regular basis.
• Maintain satisfactory and harmonious working relationships with the public, students, and other employees.

• Moves throughout the building to access meetings and information.
• R…