Principal - Denver, Colorado
About The Position
The Austin Centers for Exceptional Students (The ACES) is a K-12 Specialized Day School network serving students with significant behavioral, emotional, and developmental needs across Arizona and Colorado. Guided by the Austin Centers mission, values, and The ACES Way, the organization is committed to high quality standards, strong partner relationships, and a firm belief in student success. The culture is built on trust, student-centered practices, accountability, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of students, families, and employees. The Principal is the senior instructional, operational, and administrative leader responsible for the success of a campus. The Principal ensures a safe, effective, and student-centered learning environment aligned with the mission, philosophy, and values of The ACES. This role oversees programming, special education compliance, personnel management, school culture, enrollment, and community partnerships while maintaining high expectations for students and staff.
Requirements
- K-12 administrator experience with a strong performance record and documented results
- Master’s degree in Education, Special Education, or related Master’s field of study
- Valid administrative certification as required by state regulations
- Minimum 5 years of leadership experience in special education
- Proven ability to build and lead high performance teams of education professionals and staff
- Effective written, verbal, and presentation communication skills
- Strong coaching and mentorship mindset
- Performance accountability and personal integrity
- Ability to navigate in a fast-paced, growth-oriented, and mission-driven environment
- Data-driven decision-making with strong operational and financial skills
Responsibilities
- Develop high academic, behavioral, and ethical standards for all students and staff; monitor student progress; and ensure completion of necessary reports
- Oversee curriculum implementation aligned to Colorado Standards, IEP goals, and ACES programs
- Nurture students and staff to achieve their highest potential
- Ensure full compliance with CDE, federal, and state special education laws and ACES policies
- Monitor and manage IEP timelines (w/support of teachers), referrals, evaluations, METs, progress monitoring, and documentation with required review timelines
- Oversee k-12 programs serving students with autism, emotional disabilities, and intellectual disabilities
- Ensure a safe, orderly, and positive campus environment that promotes responsibility, respect, and high morale
- Review incidents, attendance, supervision, and behavior management systems and data
- Establish and conduct emergency procedures and regular drills; assume responsibility for the health, safety, and welfare of students, staff, and visitors
- Interview applicants, ensure effective on-boarding, provide on-going professional development, and supervise certified and non-certified personnel
- Maintain appropriate staffing ratios and organize staffing assignments to meet program/classroom needs
- Build a team and culture of quality, outcomes, and accountability while promoting mission and values
- Establish and maintain positive, professional relationships and serve as a visible, accessible leader to students, families, referring districts, and community partners
- Communicate regularly with families and districts regarding student progress, behavior, and program updates.
- Ensure compliance with all federal, state, CDE, and ACES regulations
- Complete and submit required campus and student reports related to school safety plans, attendance, behavior, safety, interventions, and schedules
- Manage campus budgets, checkbooks, student funds, and enrollment
- Maintain accurate financial records, supplies and equipment inventory
Benefits
- Austin Centers is committed to diversity, inclusion, and belonging. We strive to create an environment where everyone feels valued and supported, regardless of their background or identity.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Principal
