SALEM CITY SCHOOLS IS SEARCHING FOR QUALIFIED APPLICANTS FOR THE POSITION OF ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRINCIPAL FOR THE 2025-2026 SCHOOL YEAR.  INTERNAL APPLICANTS ONLY.  INTERNAL APPLICANTS SHOULD SUBMIT A LETTER OF INTEREST TO THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRINCIPAL

GENERAL DEFINITION AND CONDITIONS OF WORK:

Performs complex professional and difficult administrative work in the administration and supervision of the elementary/primary school and its programs, operations, facilities and services; priority is given to instructional-related activities; serves as the instructional leader and maintains an atmosphere of mutual respect and courtesy while establishing high expectations for all employees and students; does related work as required. Work is performed under the general supervision of the Superintendent.  Supervision is exercised over assistant principal, teaching and support staff.  This is an exempt position as defined by the Fair Labor Standards Act.  Employees holding exempt positions often are required to follow a flexible work schedule, which may include working extended hours to meet specific job responsibilities.  The contracted salary covers all hours worked.

This is light work requiring the exertion of up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects; work requires standing, walking, lifting, and repetitive motions; vocal communication is required for expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word; hearing is required to perceive information at normal spoken word levels; visual acuity is required for preparing and analyzing written or computer data, determining the accuracy and thoroughness of work, and observing general surroundings and activities; the worker is not subject to adverse environmental conditions.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/TYPICAL TASKS:

Developing, implementing and maintaining an effective educational program consistent with state and federal guidelines and the philosophy, policies and goals of the school board.  The Elementary School Principal also…..

• Serves as the instructional leader in the building through a variety of activities;
• Assigns, observes, confers, monitors and evaluates classroom and general performance of all teaching and support staff;
• Orients newly assigned staff members and assists with their development;
• Confers and collaborates with the Director of Elementary Education, central office staff, teachers and staff concerning the instructional program, curriculum and goals;
• Establishes and maintains effective relations and system of communication with employees, students and community through numerous programs, activities, special events, awards and recognition;
• Reviews records and reports of all financial transactions pertaining to the school;
• Supervises the preparation and maintenance of school budget, reports and records;
• Maintains leadership role in school special education program and determinations;
• Attends division-wide meetings as required;
• Establishes guidelines for conduct and handles disciplinary problems as necessary; coordinating with parents and teachers;
• Complies with all board policies and procedures;
• Evaluates and makes recommendations on instruction program, software and equipment;
• Serves on division-wide, regional and state committees as requested;
• Plans and supervises fire drills, emergency preparedness, school safety program and special events;
• Performs related tasks as required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Thorough knowledge of the educational objectives, practices, methods and techniques used in the administration and supervision of all facets of the elementary school principalship; thorough knowledge of prescribed School Board policies and procedures; excellent skills in oral and written communication; outstanding leadership and personal characteristics; ability to motivate others to reach their fullest potential.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Any combination of education and experience equivalent to a postgraduate professional license with an endorsement as a school principal in Virginia and considerable teaching experience and some other administrative/supervisory experience at the elementary level.

Revised January 2014

SALEM CITY SCHOOLS IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER