Principal - Founding Middle School

Position: [2026-2027] Principal - Founding Middle School
Company Description

ABOUT KIPP

KIPP Public Schools is a national network of tuition-free public charter schools preparing students with the skills and confidence needed to create the futures they want for themselves, their communities, and us all. We are a network of 279 schools, nearly 16,500 educators, and 210,000 students and alumni. KIPP Philadelphia Public Schools (KPPS) is part of the national KIPP Public Schools network and currently leads eight schools serving 3,400 students in North and West Philadelphia.

By 2030, KPPS will be serving approximately 4,000 students.

KPPS MISSION

Together with families and communities, we create joyful, academically excellent schools that prepare students to pursue the paths they choose-college, career, and beyond-so they can lead fulfilling lives and build a more just world.

LIFE AT KPPS

At KPPS, we believe that talented, committed, and culturally competent educators and staff are foundation of our students' success. We work to create a professional community grounded in joy, candor, care, and connection - where every team member can bring their authentic self, grow in their craft, and contribute to meaningful work. Here is what you can expect:

* Commitment to Anti-Racism & Equity:
Join a team dedicated to dismantling systemic barriers and creating inclusive, culturally responsive schools where all students and staff can thrive.

* Joyful, Inclusive Community:
Work in a collaborative, identity-affirming environment that values relationships, celebrates individuality, and supports the well-being of adults and children alike.

* Competitive & Equitable Compensation:
Benefit from transparent compensation structures, including performance-based bonuses that recognize meaningful contributions.

* Professional Growth & Leadership Pathways:
Access high-quality development - including coaching, workshops, and tailored leadership opportunities - designed to support your long-term career trajectory.

* Authenticity & Belonging:
Be part of a culture that encourages you to show up as your full self and contribute to a community rooted in trust and respect.

* Student- and People-Centered Excellence:
Join colleagues who believe strong relationships and thoughtful preparation drive excellent outcomes-for students and for staff.

* Comprehensive Well-Being Support:
Receive whole-person support through coaching, mental health resources, wellness initiatives, and team-building experiences that prioritize your professional and personal growth.

Job Description

The school will launch with 5th grade and add one grade level each year through 8th grade. At KPPS, the Founding Middle School Principal's primary role is to lead a strong, coherent school system that delivers a joyful, affirming, and academically rigorous experience for students and staff. The Founding Middle School Principal is responsible for designing and institutionalizing the instructional, cultural, and operational systems of a new school, with a primary focus on instructional leadership, adult development, and culture-building-ensuring high-quality teaching, strong relationships, and clear expectations are consistently experienced across the school community.

The Founding Middle School Principal does not do this work alone. They lead in close partnership with the KPPS Regional Office, collaborating with regional instructional leaders, operations, student support teams, and talent partners to implement aligned systems, analyze data, and strengthen school-wide practices. The Founding Middle School Principal also works as part of a community of practice with fellow KPPS principals, engaging in shared learning, problem-solving, and collective accountability to reduce variability and accelerate student outcomes across the region.

In addition, the Founding Middle School Principal partners with the KIPP Foundation to align regional priorities with national initiatives, leverage network-wide resources, and contribute to the continuous improvement of KIPP's instructional, leadership, and student experience frameworks.

Through these partnerships, the Founding Middle School Principal is expected to both lead their individual school…