Principal, Education Administration

Mission

We exist to educate and empower students to become culturally grounded, globally prepared Nn'ee.

Vision

We are a student-centered learning community that develops culturally confident, academically successful, and community-connected citizens.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

San Carlos Unified School District is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals. Discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, or disability is prohibited in accordance with Governing Board Policy GBA.

In alignment with district values and community priorities,
Native American Preference in Employment will be applied where applicable.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Principal serves as the instructional and cultural leader of Rice Intermediate School, responsible for advancing student achievement while honoring and integrating the cultural values, language, and traditions of the San Carlos Apache community.

This position leads the development and implementation of a shared vision focused on academic excellence, cultural responsiveness, and whole-child development. The Principal ensures effective systems for teaching and learning, fosters a positive and inclusive school climate, and builds strong partnerships with families and the community.

JOB GOALS

• Establish and sustain a high-performing, culturally responsive learning environment where all students achieve academic success
• Lead with a focus on equity, access, and opportunity for students in a high-poverty Title I setting
• Promote the integration of Apache culture, language, and community values into the instructional program
• Ensure effective management of school operations, personnel, and resources aligned to district priorities

QUALIFICATIONS

• Master's Degree in Education or related field
• Minimum of five (5) years of successful classroom teaching experience
• Previous school leadership experience preferred
• Experience working in rural, high-poverty, or Native American communities strongly preferred
• Arizona Department of Education (ADE) Administrative Certification
• Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered by the Governing Board

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES Instructional Leadership & Student Achievement

• Serve as the instructional leader by developing and communicating a clear vision for student success grounded in equity, cultural relevance, and trauma-informed practices
• Lead continuous improvement efforts using data-driven decision-making to increase student achievement
• Establish and support Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) focused on analyzing student data, refining instructional practices, and improving student outcomes
• Support high-quality instruction through frequent classroom observations, coaching, and actionable feedback
• Ensure implementation of research-based instructional practices
  , culturally responsive teaching, and aligned curriculum
• Recruit, hire, develop, and retain high-quality staff committed to serving students in a Title I environment
• Foster a collaborative culture where staff engage in PLCs and shared accountability for student success
• Provide ongoing, job-embedded professional development, including training in trauma-informed practices, culturally responsive instruction, and effective PLC implementation
• Conduct staff evaluations aligned to district and state frameworks, providing support for continuous growth

School Climate & Culture

• Build and sustain a safe, inclusive, and culturally affirming school environment that recognizes the impact of trauma on student learning and behavior
• Implement and support trauma-informed systems and practices
  , including social-emotional supports, restorative approaches, and positive behavior interventions
• Promote respect for Apache culture, traditions, and community values in all aspects of the school
• Develop systems that support student attendance, engagement, and overall well-being

Family & Community Engagement

• Strengthen partnerships with families, tribal leadership, and community stakeholders through culturally responsive and relationship-centered practices
• Communicate effectively and consistently with parents regarding student progress and school initiatives
• Foster trust and collaboration between the school and the San Carlos community

Operations & Resource Management

• Manage fiscal, human, and physical resources to support instructional priorities and student needs
• Ensure compliance with district, state, and federal regulations, including Title I program requirements
• Allocate…