Principal in Residence (PIR) - 26'/27' School Year

Phalen Leadership Academies•Flint, MI

About The Position

The Principal in Residence (PIR) program at Phalen Leadership Academies (PLA) is a one-year leadership residency designed to prepare high-potential leaders to become principals of PLA schools. Through a combination of hands-on leadership experience, targeted professional development, and one-on-one coaching, PIRs gain the skills, knowledge, and mindset required to successfully lead a school. PIRs are placed at high-performing PLA schools and work closely with their regional director and national leadership coach. Throughout the residency, PIRs are active members of the school leadership team and are expected to lead key school initiatives, supervise staff, and contribute to the school’s academic and operational success.

Requirements

Master’s degree (or enrollment in a master’s program) in education, leadership, or related field
At least 5+ years of K–12 teaching experience
Experience managing adults (e.g., assistant principals, deans, coaches, department/grade level lead)
Proven ability to lead teams to achieve strong student outcomes
Strong track record of using data to drive decisions and improve results
Commitment to equity, excellence, and the mission of closing the opportunity gap for all scholars

Responsibilities

Observe classrooms and deliver actionable feedback using PLA’s coaching framework.
Lead data-driven instructional planning and monitor academic progress
Support intervention and enrichment efforts aligned to student needs and school goals
Champion high-quality, standards-aligned instruction in all content areas
Supervise and coach a team of teachers or instructional staff toward clear performance goals
Lead weekly data meetings, PLCs, or department meetings
Participate in and support teacher evaluation and coaching cycles
Assist in onboarding and developing new instructional staff
Co-lead implementation of PLA’s culture systems, ensuring consistency and equity
Analyze behavior and attendance data to drive proactive student support strategies
Manage family engagement initiatives, student discipline plans, and culture-building projects
Plan and lead at least one school-wide event or initiative to strengthen student and family culture
Participate in school strategy meetings and contribute to the school improvement plan.
Support or lead projects, including master scheduling, testing, or recruitment events
Manage key logistics such as substitute coverage and operational compliance.
Represent the school at board meetings, family forums, or community events.
Attend and actively participate in monthly national training sessions and PLA’s summer training institute
Engage in weekly coaching sessions and apply feedback to improve practice
Complete leadership assignments and build a portfolio of artifacts demonstrating readiness
Exhibit initiative, coachability, and ownership over your leadership growth