Interim Middle School Principal-Kennedy Middle School, Waltham Public Schools

Interim Middle School Principal (2026) Kennedy Middle School, Waltham Public Schools

The purpose of this position is to have an individual serve as the educational leader and chief administrator of the Middle School, responsible for leading the learning in the school, implementing policies, regulations and procedures effectively to ensure that all students are supervised in a safe learning environment and provided instruction which meets and exceeds the State Curriculum Frameworks. Achieving academic excellence requires that the Middle School Principal work collaboratively to lead and nurture all members of the school staff and to communicate effectively with parents/guardians/caregivers, members of the community, and colleagues in other districts and schools.

Inherent in each position are responsibilities for planning, curriculum development, program evaluation, extra curricular activities, personnel management, financial management, emergency procedures, resource scheduling, and facilities operations.

This position is for the  school year. The successful interim candidate will have the ability to apply for the permanent position.

Education, Training and Experience

• Master's degree from an accredited college or university required.
• Certification as a Principal/Assistant Principal by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts (DESE Cert. # 1021 or 1023)
• Demonstrated competencies in middle school (Gr. 6-8) administration.
• At least nine (9) years experience in the field of public education, including experience in administration and teaching.

Knowledge Required

• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of curriculum development and program evaluation, child growth and development, effective instructional strategies, classroom management, learning assessment and diagnosis, and research related to learning.
• Knowledge of the State Curriculum Frameworks as related to the subject areas in grades 6-8.
• Thorough knowledge of the materials, methods and techniques needed to exemplify high quality instruction.
• Knowledge of Chapter 766 special education and Section 504 rules and regulations.
• Knowledge of current practices in curriculum, instruction and supervision.

Abilities Required

• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing, using proper grammar and vocabulary.
• Ability to use computers for word processing, data management, and telecommunication.
• Ability to design, implement and consistently enforce a school-wide student disciplinary system.
• Ability to develop and manage a school budget in a cost effective manner.
• Ability to carry out a professional evaluation and supervision program.
• Ability to deal with all staff effectively.
• Ability to work independently to complete all aspects of their job.
• Ability to work collaboratively with program directors.
• Ability to apply technology to meet the needs and duties as outlined in the job description.

Skills Required

• Excellent managerial and leadership skills.
• Skilled in developing and implementing procedures to accomplish goals and objectives.
• Skilled in developing a positive working relationship with teachers and parents/guardians/caregivers.
• Skilled in evaluating programmatic needs on a continual basis.
• Skilled in working collaboratively with other administrators.

Supervision Scope

Performs varied and responsible duties with considerable latitude for independent judgment and action while planning, administering and executing duties. Works independently and in concert with others.

Supervision Given and Received

Work under the direction of the Superintendent of Schools. Hires, supervises and evaluates all staff including teachers, instructional aides, secretaries, nurses, building maintenance workers, and assistant principals in accordance to their contracts.

Description of Duties:

(The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.)

• Fosters a school climate that promotes high standards and expectations for all students and staff for academic performance and responsibility for behavior.
• Organizes, manages, evaluates, and supervises effective and clear procedures for the operation and functioning of the entire school consistent with the philosophy, mission and goals of the schools and district. This includes instructional programs, which meet and exceed the State Curriculum Frameworks, extracurricular activities, and discipline systems to ensure a safe and orderly climate, financial management, facilities maintenance, program evaluation, personnel management, office operations, emergency procedures, and community relations.
  
  Ensures compliance with all laws, regulations, and school committee policies and regulations.
• Leads and manages the instructional program as reflected in the School Improvement Plan.
• Leads school level planning processes to ensure the…