Smith Principal​/Director of Early Childhood

Smith Elementary School Principal/Director Of Early Childhood

Starting Date:
July 1, 2026

Reports To:

Superintendent

Salary:
Based on Experience and SAA Contract

Job Summary and Responsibilities:

• Administers early childhood programs meeting all LARA requirements and safety standards
• Demonstrates extensive knowledge of child development and Early Childhood Curriculum
• Demonstrates knowledge of best practices, including creative and innovative problem-solving
• Interacts with students positively and encourage high performance through high expectations for all
• Demonstrates instructional leadership
• Monitors and supports effective teaching practices, ensuring rigor as well as relevant teaching practices for today's learner
• Empowers students, staff, and parents to be positive contributors in creating a healthy school climate and culture
• Evaluates and monitors the effectiveness of the school, its programs, and staff
• Actively engages in the IEP process and supporting plans
• Experience in developing and supporting MTSS and PBIS frameworks
• Monitors and supports the operations of the PreK – 2nd grade school
• Commits to high visibility during school and events
• Demonstrates the ability to communicate with all educational stakeholders
• Understands best hiring practices, best evaluation practices, mentoring programs and the development of professional learning opportunities for staff
• Plans, oversees and directs district literacy curriculum, instruction, and assessment
• Experience with data-driven decision making
• Prepares and administers early childhood budgets (tuition and GSRP programs)

Qualifications:

• Degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development and Master's Degree in Educational Administration
• Minimum of five years of successful teaching experience
• Previous leadership experience, including experience leading literacy initiatives
• Communication skills and the ability to work with all stakeholders
• Experience with GSRP programming and state/federal grant processes and procedures
• Familiarity and experience with the State of Michigan DHHS (LARA) Licensing
• Knowledge of preschool curriculum and evidence-based best and emerging practices in Early Childhood education
• Skill in fostering strong parent-school partnerships
• Excellent communication, group leadership, and team management skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and function independently
• Must be able to work flexible hours to accommodate the needs of the community
• Demonstrates qualities of professional leadership among teachers, parents and students