K-8 Principal - Washington Connections Academy

Connections Academy • Lacey, WA

3d • $90,000 - $110,000 • Remote

About The Position

Washington Connections Academy (WACA) is a tuition-free, fully accredited virtual public school serving students in grades K–12 across Washington state. Operating under a shared-services model with the Mary M. Knight School District and Goldendale School District, WACA provides personalized online learning and is committed to high-quality education regardless of students’ locations.

The K-8 Principal partners with the leadership team to oversee daily school operations, mentor teachers, and ensure students receive the support they need to succeed in a virtual learning environment. The Principal collaborates with departments including Enrollment, Technical Support, Finance, and HR to support effective school operations. The role includes instructional leadership, staff development, student and family support, compliance, school improvement, and community outreach. Work may be performed remotely from Washington, Oregon, or Idaho, or from the Lacey office; Washington residency is strongly preferred. Travel for state testing, marketing, and school events may be required, including overnight travel.

The salary range is $90,000–$110,000, based on experience and education. The posting also describes leadership training and mentorship, and a collaborative, mission-driven culture that values innovation and teamwork.

Requirements

• Washington Administrative License.
• Master’s degree in Educational Administration or a related field.
• Strong instructional practices relative to K–8 grade standards.
• At least 5 years of teaching experience; K–8 experience preferred.
• Leadership or management experience in an educational setting.
• Ability to work effectively in a remote setting.
• Ability to travel for state testing, marketing, and school events; travel may require overnight stays.
• Ability to use a personal electronic device and an email address for two-step authentication.
• Strong leadership skills and experience managing teachers in an online or in-person setting.
• Proficiency with virtual learning tools, Microsoft Office, Google Suite, and educational platforms.
• Exceptional communication and relationship-building abilities with families and staff.
• Flexibility and adaptability in a fast-paced, innovative learning environment.
• Passion for student success and commitment to educational excellence.

Nice To Haves

• K–8 teaching experience.
• Washington residency is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversee implementation of the Connections Academy curriculum and virtual learning protocols.
• Provide ongoing instructional coaching, mentorship, and professional development for teachers.
• Lead the Teacher Induction and Onboarding Program for new staff.
• Foster a positive, collaborative school culture through virtual events, recognition, and staff engagement initiatives.
• Ensure individualized academic support for students through proactive communication with teachers and parents.
• Help resolve student concerns and implement intervention strategies.
• Work with families needing additional support to increase engagement and student success.
• Partner with parent Community Coordinators to develop student activities, social events, and virtual field trips.
• Support coordination of state standardized testing to encourage high participation rates.
• Contribute to the school improvement plan and data-driven decision-making.
• Stay current on Washington state education policies, procedures, and legislation.
• Supervise and evaluate staff performance in alignment with state requirements.
• Handle escalated student issues and emergency situations as needed.
• Represent WACA in student recruitment efforts, including virtual and in-person events.
• Support marketing and outreach efforts to build awareness and engagement.
• Collaborate with the leadership team and departments including Enrollment, Technical Support, Finance, and HR to support school operations.
• Travel for state testing, marketing, and school events as needed.

Benefits

• Professional growth opportunities through leadership training and mentorship.
• Collaborative, rewarding, and mission-driven culture that values innovation and teamwork.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager