The High School Principal serves as the chief instructional and administrative leader of the school and is responsible for ensuring high levels of student achievement, safe and supportive learning environments, effective staff performance, and full compliance with Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) regulations and Missouri School Improvement Program (MSIP 6) accountability standards. The Principal provides visionary leadership focused on continuous school improvement through data-driven decision-making, instructional excellence, staff development, and meaningful engagement with students, families, and community stakeholders. The Principal ensures that all instructional, operational, and accountability systems are aligned to district and state expectations while preparing students for post-secondary success through strong implementation of College and Career Readiness (CCR) pathways and assessment systems. Reports to: Superintendent or Designee Supervises: Certified and non-certified school staff as assigned Pay Grade: Administrative Salary Schedule ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS Serve as the primary instructional leader responsible for improving student academic outcomes and ensuring instructional practices align with district priorities and Missouri Learning Standards. Ensure fidelity of implementation of district curriculum and instructional frameworks, including alignment to state standards, End-of-Course (EOC) expectations, and graduation requirements. Lead classroom observation, coaching, feedback, and evaluation processes to improve instructional effectiveness and student learning outcomes. Monitor instructional strategies, differentiation, rigor, and student engagement across all classrooms to ensure high-quality teaching and learning. Ensure equitable access to rigorous coursework, including Advanced Placement (AP), Dual Credit, Career and Technical Education (CTE), and other College and Career Readiness opportunities. Lead the development, implementation, and ongoing monitoring of the School Improvement Plan (SIP), ensuring alignment with district CSIP goals and MSIP 6 accountability indicators. Analyze state, district, and school-level data, including MAP, End-of-Course (EOC) exams, benchmark assessments, attendance, graduation rates, and discipline data to drive instructional decisions and targeted interventions. Oversee all assessment administration, including EOC exams and other state-required assessments, ensuring testing integrity, compliance, and adherence to DESE protocols. Ensure implementation of all College and Career Readiness (CCR) components, including ACT, WorkKeys, ASVAB, Accuplacer, Industry Recognized Credentials (IRC), Dual Enrollment, FAFSA completion, and other postsecondary readiness indicators. Lead MTSS processes to ensure timely academic, behavioral, and social-emotional interventions with consistent progress monitoring and documentation. Establish measurable school performance goals and monitor progress toward district and state accountability targets. Recruit, develop, evaluate, and retain high-quality staff while fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous growth. Provide ongoing coaching, professional learning, and performance feedback to strengthen instructional practice and leadership capacity. Support induction, mentoring, and professional growth of new teachers and staff. Ensure compliance with district HR policies, DESE certification requirements, and professional standards. Establish and maintain a safe, orderly, and supportive school environment that promotes student success and well-being. Implement positive behavior supports, restorative practices, and student engagement strategies to improve school climate and culture. Ensure compliance with student discipline policies, documentation, and state reporting requirements. Lead crisis response planning, emergency preparedness procedures, and safety protocols for the building. Promote strong attendance systems and initiatives that support student engagement and reduce chronic absenteeism. Oversee school budget implementation and strategic resource allocation aligned with instructional priorities and school goals. Ensure compliance with all federal, state, DESE, and Board policies, including program implementation and monitoring. Oversee building operations, safety, facilities management, and daily operational efficiency. Maintain accurate records, reports, and documentation required for audits, accreditation, accountability reviews, and DESE compliance. Administer state and federal programs with fidelity, including special education, Title programs, and other accountability-driven initiatives. Build strong partnerships with families, community organizations, higher education institutions, and workforce partners to expand opportunities for students. Ensure consistent and transparent communication regarding school goals, student performance, assessment outcomes, and district initiatives. Lead meaningful family engagement opportunities and serve as a visible, positive representative of the school and district.
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Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Principal