DEFINITION

The principal is the chief administrator of the school and is responsible for all aspects of its administration in accordance with state law, district policy and school rules and procedures. This administration shall be accomplished in a manner that models healthy human relationships and approaches to problem solving that produce a school climate conducive to learning and teaching.

He/she is responsible for effective communication and coordination with parents, the community, the District Office and other related agencies.

DUTIES

Instructional / Curricular

The principal provides leadership for all aspects of the instructional planning process, and monitors the implementation of approved curriculum and standards through classroom observation, discussion and attention to student achievement.

Pupil Personnel

The principal is responsible for the management of all student affairs in school and school - related activities. Such matters will include:

     - Maintenance of health and safety standards

     - Adherence to appropriate standards of behavior

     - Maintenance of the highest levels of attendance and punctuality

     - Organization of appropriate student activities and extracurricular programs

     - A visible presence on campus

Personnel Management

The principal is responsible for making recommendations with regard to the hiring and assignment of qualified personnel, their retention, transfer or promotion when appropriate, for all positions at the site. In addition he/she must monitor the following:

     - Evaluation of all personnel assigned to the site in accordance with contractual agreements.

     - A work environment that is clean and safe and classrooms that are equipped for learning.

Parent / Community Relationships

The principal shall encourage and organize parent participation in school activities, and attend the activities of parent clubs, PTA’s, School Site Councils and boosters to the extent possible.

The principal is also responsible for prompt attention to parent concerns, for informing parents of the appropriate channels of complaint and for ensuring that parents get an appropriate response to problems raised.

Professional Growth

The principal will continue his/her own professional growth to maintain familiarity with educational research and directions in order to communicate them to the school community.

The principal will offer leadership to staff in planning relevant staff development for individuals and groups.

Facilities Management

The principal oversees the care of the physical plant and property and its treatment. Makes recommendations regarding its maintenance and renovation.

Management Team Relationships

The principal is a fully participating and cooperative member of the management team to ensure consistent district administration and mutual support.

Fiscal Management

The principal supervises all site financial matters and budgets in a fiscally prudent manner and is responsible for all required accounting and reports.

Annual Goals

The principal takes the lead in developing site goals in all areas as part of the school plan. He/she must ensure that district goals are also incorporated into the site plan.

Desirable Characteristics

Demonstrates a sense of vision for the school and the knowledge and skills to articulate and implement that vision.

Demonstrates strong leadership ability in curriculum and instruction through the organization, delegation, coordination and direction of all related activities.

Demonstrates open-mindedness, fairness, consistency, humor, honesty, creativity, professionalism, courtesy and a high energy level. Is a strong team player.

Demonstrates the ability to make decisions and establish high standards for all staff. Treats all staff members as members of the team and requires accountability.

Demonstrates respect, rapport, and concern for students, parents, staff, management team and School Board. Serves as an advocate for those groups as appropriate.

Education

Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university. Progressive postgraduate training and experience in the areas of curriculum development and learning theory. Appropriate administrative credential and advanced degree required.

Experience

Five years of recent teaching, school administrative experience, or a combination thereof, is preferable.

Responsible to

Superintendent