Building Principal; FY

Position: Building Principal (FY27)

TITLE: Principal

QUALIFICATIONS:

1) Illinois Professional Educator License with a General Administrative or Principal endorsement

CERTIFICATION: Appropriate Illinois State Board of Education Certification

REPORTS TO: Superintendent

PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITY: Grass Lake School is a Pre K–8 public school that prides itself on being a close-knit learning community with a dedicated staff committed to fostering academic excellence, student well-being, and strong relationships. Guided by the district’s mission to nurture and empower students to explore, achieve, and excel, and its vision of preparing today’s learners for tomorrow’s opportunities, the Principal plays a central role in bringing that vision to life.
As the instructional and operational leader of the school, the Principal is responsible for cultivating a positive, inclusive school culture that values innovation, collaboration, and student-centered learning. This includes the implementation of key strategic priorities such as Problem-Based Learning (PBL), student voice and choice, social-emotional development, and meaningful family and community partnerships. The Principal ensures that all efforts align with the Illinois Performance Standards for School Leaders, the Illinois School Code, Board policies, and the district’s Strategic Plan.

I.

Mission, Vision, and Results

• Collaborates with stakeholders to develop and sustain a shared vision that promotes high expectations for all students.
• Uses the school’s mission and vision to guide decisions that advance student learning.
• Communicates clear goals aligned with district and school improvement priorities, including student ownership of learning and future readiness.

II. Systems Leadership and Operations

• Oversees the implementation of the School Improvement Plan and supports data-informed decision-making to improve academic and social outcomes.
• Manages school operations, including safety procedures, transportation, scheduling, and staff assignments.
• Allocates resources and time effectively to support teaching, learning, SEL, and innovation.
• Ensures facilities and practices reflect inclusivity, safety, and efficiency.

III. Teaching and Learning

• Leads implementation of curriculum and instructional practices that reflect research-based strategies and incorporate student voice and choice.
• Promotes Problem-Based Learning (PBL) as a key instructional strategy aligned to the district’s strategic plan.
• Supports professional development and builds capacity among teachers through coaching and collaboration.
• Supervise and evaluate instructional staff using a state-approved framework and provide actionable feedback to support growth and improve outcomes.

IV. Collaborative Leadership

• Builds strong relationships with students, staff, families, and community partners.
• Promotes shared leadership and invites feedback from all stakeholders to inform school improvement.
• Actively engages families and local organizations to support learning beyond the classroom.
• Collaborates with district leaders and support staff to ensure a consistent and positive school experience.

V. Integrity and Professionalism

• Models ethical, respectful, and inclusive behavior in all interactions.
• Ensures that policies and practices reflect a commitment to equity, confidentiality, and professional standards.
• Fosters a school culture that values diversity and encourages open dialogue.
• Participates in ongoing professional learning and contributes to the profession through leadership and collaboration.

VI. Culture of High Expectations

• Leads efforts to create a positive and student-centered school culture focused on achievement, social-emotional well-being, and continuous improvement.
• Encourages students to take ownership of their learning and behavior through clearly defined expectations and meaningful engagement.
• Supports implementation of SEL practices and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS).
• Celebrates student growth, effort, and contributions in a variety of ways.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT:

Work Year: 12-month administrative contract

Salary Range: $115,000 – $130,000 (base salary, depending on experience and qualifications)

Additional Duties:

Maintains strong partnerships with parent groups (e.g., PTO), community organizations (e.g., local business leaders, local agencies), and other educational entities.

Leads school improvement planning and implementation aligned with district strategic initiatives.

Performs other responsibilities and duties as assigned by the Superintendent.

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