Assistant Principal - Grade 6 School

Amherst School District•Amherst, MA

60d

About The Position

Amherst Public Schools is seeking a dynamic, student-centered, and equity-driven Assistant Principal to serve as the instructional and administrative leader for the new Grade 6 School, which will open in the 2026-2027 school year. The Grade 6 School will bring together all sixth-grade students from the Amherst Elementary Schools into one cohesive program housed within the Amherst Regional Middle School. The Assistant Principal will play a pivotal role in supporting a smooth transition for students, families, and staff as we launch this exciting new chapter in our district's restructuring initiative. This is a unique leadership opportunity to help design and shape the culture, climate, and academic experience for our youngest middle-level learners - ensuring they feel a strong sense of belonging and connection as they enter the secondary campus for the first time.

Requirements

Massachusetts DESE licensure as Principal/Assistant Principal, Grades PK-6 or PK-8 (or eligibility).
Demonstrated experience in instructional leadership, student support, and staff supervision.
Strong understanding of adolescent development, culturally responsive practices, and inclusive education.
Excellent communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
Commitment to equity, belonging, and the ARPS mission of supporting every learner.

Responsibilities

Assist in the overall administration of the 6th Grade School with specific responsibility of the daily operations within the Middle School.
Supervise and evaluate teachers, paraeducators, and support staff assigned to the Grade 6 School.
Support a positive school climate that fosters academic excellence, equity, and social-emotional growth.
Collaborate with the Principal and district leadership to align curriculum, schedules, and supports across grade 6.
Oversee student discipline, attendance, and behavior supports for Grade 6 students.
Implement restorative and culturally responsive practices that promote a safe and inclusive environment.
Coordinate with counselors, adjustment counselors, and special education teams to support individual student needs.
Build strong partnerships with families and caregivers to support student success.
Lead family orientation events, open houses, and communication efforts for the Grade 6 School.
Serve as a liaison between elementary and middle school teams to ensure continuity of learning and care.
Support implementation of district curriculum, instruction, and assessment initiatives.
Facilitate professional learning and collaborative team meetings.
Analyze data to inform instructional decisions and monitor student progress.
Support scheduling, supervision of arrival/dismissal, lunch/recess, and other logistics.
Assist in maintaining compliance with district policies, safety procedures, and state regulations.
Contribute to the development and monitoring of the Grade 6 School budget.