MIDDLE SCHOOL PRINCIPAL
Site Administration

PRIMARY FUNCTION
Under direction of the Superintendent, to work in close cooperation with the staff of the middle school, administrators of the District, Board of Education, parents, pupils, and other members of the community to determine common educational goals and objectives that will provide for an effective educational program directed toward meting the intellectual, emotional and social needs of each student; to act as the educational leader and manager of the school; to have direct responsibility for the administration of the school and its educational programs; and to perform other duties as required.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
This position requires subject matter expertise in both educational programs, and curriculum and instructional strategies. Administrative experience directly related to this position is necessary to assure success in a middle school leadership role. The job requires the ability to analyze and offer alternative problem solutions. Decisions are made by the incumbent that have a critical impact on the goals, organization and administration of educational programs and services of the school. The middle school principal has supervisory responsibility for planning, assigning, reviewing, and evaluating the quality and quantity of work of professional, technical and clerical employees. He or she frequently meets with teachers, ancillary staff, and other educational personnel to influence, motivate and monitor result objectives of the school operation.

ESSENTIAL FUNCITONS/EXAMPLES OF DUTIES
* Oversee all school site academic policies and procedures including scheduling, teacher and room assignments, and discipline.
* Oversee and participate in all aspects of curriculum design and instruction including core curriculum, arts, electives, and physical education.
* Oversee co-curricular programs, student leadership, advisory, community engagement programs, electives, field trips, outdoor education – appointing teacher-leaders where appropriate.
* Work with teachers to develop and review the academic program – align curriculum and methodologies to standards and to the school’s mission.
* Promote hands-on, active, cooperative & project-based learning throughout the school community and provide hands-on guidance to teachers as they create and implement the program.
* Work to create a culture that values learning, reading, community engagement, and respect.
* Lead the design and implementation (in concert with district leadership) of the school's programs for Special Education and English Learner students, and develop Special Education and English Learner programs that comply with all federal, state and local regulations.
* Recruit, hire, train, evaluate, and work to retain high quality faculty.
* Create a positive and fair work environment where teachers and other employees feel enthusiastic about the school.
* Collaborate with teachers to develop and review assessment plans and provide hands-on guidance to teachers in the development of multiple assessments tied to standards.
* Collaborate with teachers to develop benchmarks for each grade level and adjust as appropriate.
* Work with teachers to create and use multiple sources of data to develop a plan for the improvement of student achievement.
* Create systems and planning tools for teachers to track which standards are being taught and how to measure student progress; Define and track annual student achievement goals.
* Work with teachers to select textbooks and supplemental materials that are aligned to curriculum and standards and fit the mission of the school.
* Create and implement a professional development program for faculty.
* Work with district administration on facility requirements for the school.
* Oversee academic team for program improvement.
* Work with the School Site Council and parent organizations to coordinate the efforts of the parents with the mission and goals of the school.
* Attend all district board meetings, and School Site Council, site parent advisory and parent organization meetings.
* Meet with district leadership on a weekly basis to review status of academic program and individual student achievement.
* Manage all resources at school site, including: setting and maintaining a balanced budget, planning for future needs, and ensuring compliance with restrictions and reporting requirements of categorical funds and restricted donations. Adhere to district policy and protocols for sound fiscal management.
* Design a master calendar of programs and activities to implement the facility goals and objectives.
* Evaluate expenditure requisitions and allocate instructional supply, material, and equipment funds appropriately.
* Perform other related duties as required and assigned.



CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT
Insurability by the District’s liability insurance carrier

This position classification performs light work that involves sitting a portion of the time, but does require walking and standing for extended periods. This position requires accurate perceiving of sound, near and far vision, depth perception, working with educational materials and objects, and providing both oral and written information and direction.

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable a person with a disability to perform the essential functions of the job.

QUALIFICATIONS
The ideal principal is a visionary whose experience, knowledge, and drive will set the tone for a supportive school climate that challenges and motivates students, teachers, and families to achieve a passion for learning, engagement in the community, and a respect for self and others. Resourcefulness, flexibility, and an entrepreneurial spirit are key qualities for this middle school leadership position. The ideal candidate will have (preferable but all are not required):
* Ability to effectively analyze problems, determine alternative problem solutions, and make appropriate and effective decisions;
* A track record as an effective administrator especially regarding program improvement;
* Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written form;
* Experience with differentiated instruction and student-centered approaches to teaching and learning;
* Excellent communication skills and experience motivating and working with parent volunteers;
* Knowledge of or experience with diverse populations;
* Ability to effectively motivate and guide employees to continually improve their skills;
* Strong computer skills, and the ability to use information technology and communications;
* A willingness to go the extra mile in order to meet the educational needs of our students;
* Some facility with Spanish;
* Commitment to the mission and values of King City Union School District;
* Ability to be flexible and be a team player;
* Experience in attracting and retaining highly qualified employees.

EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATION
* Experience in middle school (6-8) teaching and leadership (a minimum of 10 years of experience preferred);
* A Master's Degree in Education and Administrative Credential (prior leadership experience required);
* Possession of a valid California credential authorizing service as middle school principal;
* Possession of a valid California driver’s license.