Principal (Special Populations, Student Support, and Culture)

Principal – Special Populations, Student Support, and Culture

The Principal for Special Populations, Student Support, and Culture leads all programs and initiatives that ensure equity, inclusion, and access for diverse learners. This role oversees school ops, compliance, programming, and staff development related to Special Education, Multilingual Learners (MLL/ELL), and Section 504 services, as well as student discipline, culture, and restorative practices. The Principal works collaboratively with the Academic Principal to create a unified, high-performing school that meets the needs of every student.

Key Responsibilities:

Special Populations Leadership

• Oversee compliance and programming for all students with disabilities, English language learners, and other specialized populations.
• Supervise the development and implementation of IEPs, 504 plans, and ENL programs in compliance with federal, state, and local laws.
• Lead progress monitoring, parent engagement, and staff training related to specialized instruction and intervention.
• Manage relationships with outside agencies and service providers.

Student Support & Culture

• Lead the implementation of the network-wide behavior systems, discipline policies, and restorative practices.
• Oversee implementation of the school's social-emotional learning (SEL) and positive behavior supports (PBIS).
• Ensure that the school culture is inclusive, safe, and conducive to learning for all students.
• Serve as the primary contact for family engagement and community partnerships around student well-being.
• Monitor behavioral data to identify trends and support proactive interventions.
• Train staff on classroom management, trauma-informed practice, and de-escalation strategies.
• Lead crisis response and behavioral support teams.

Operations & Compliance

• Serve as the primary lead for overall school operations, including scheduling, facilities, and compliance.
• Oversee the school's calendar, assessment systems, and instructional technology.
• Oversee compliance with academic reporting, accountability frameworks, and state/federal education requirements.
• Collaborate with the Academic Principal to ensure school-wide operational consistency and compliance.
• Manage staffing, scheduling, and professional learning for special populations and student support teams.

Collaboration and Support Services

• Partner with the Academic Principal to align academic and behavioral interventions.
• Coordinate with counselors, social workers, and other student support staff to provide wraparound services.
• Engage families in problem-solving, goal-setting, and progress updates for students requiring behavioral or special education support.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Education, Special Education, or Educational Leadership (Doctorate preferred).
• Certification in School Building Leadership or equivalent.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in special education and/or student services administration.
• In-depth knowledge of IDEA, ADA, ESSA, and other federal/state regulations.
• Strong commitment to equity, inclusion, and culturally responsive practices.

Collaboration Model

• Both Principals report directly to the CEO
• Decisions related to staffing and strategic planning are made jointly.
• The Academic Principal leads all instructional and general operations.
• The Special Populations Principal leads all compliance and support systems for specialized populations and school culture.

Compensation

$140,000 - $150,000 per year

Work Remotely

• No

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift

Work Location: In person