Director Of Mtss (2024-2025 SY)

Department: Secondary Education Job Title: Middle School Principal FLSA Status:

(Exempt/Non-exempt) Exempt; Non-Aligned Reports to: Assistant Superintendent for Secondary Education In compliance with state and federal laws, newton public schools are committed to equity, anti-racism and a nondiscrimination policy for students, employees and prospective applicants. All educational and employment determinations are based on an individual's qualifications and achievements without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, pregnancy, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, ancestry, homelessness, physical or mental disability, veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by state and/or federal statute.

Summary:

The principal is the chief executive officer and instructional leader of the school and is directly responsible to the Superintendent of Schools, working under the School Committee policies and the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Qualifications:

• Licensed or eligible for licensure as a principal by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. The applicant hired by the superintendent must possess proper licensure at the point of formal appointment by the superintendent.

• Minimum of master's degree from an accredited college or university; advanced degree preferred.

• At least 5 years of successful classroom teaching experience, preferably at the middle school level; prior experience as a school administrator/principal preferred.

• Strong background in K-12 curriculum, state curriculum frameworks and the development of a standards-based classroom environment.

• Understanding of the dynamics of middle school organization and management.

• Experience in teacher supervision and evaluation.

• Skills in program and staff development.

• Interest in system-wide issues.

• Commitment to and experience leading equity initiatives focused on race, disability, class, and gender.

• Multilingualism an asset.

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities (Not Limited To):

• Participates and maintains an effective and culturally responsive learning environment among the entire school community (faculty, staff, support personnel, students, etc.).

• Serves as instructional leader for the school and drives teaching and learning designed to meet middle school student needs to create continuous improvement and equitable academic and social and emotional outcomes for all students.

• Skill in data analysis and using data to lead teacher teams to address achievement gaps.

• Fosters creative and inclusive learning environment in which all students are supported, connected, and inspired to excel.

• Sets clear expectations for staff and provides ongoing feedback, evaluations, advice, counseling, and support to all staff members regarding their individual and group performance.

• Works with the various members of central administration to solve school problems, including student learning challenges, family engagement, student support, and operational issues.

• Supports systems for promoting positive behavior and tiered interventions to meet the needs of a diverse student body; maintains high expectations and motivation for all community members to engage in continuous learning and development.

• Leads administrative team in the school, including assistant principals and student services administrators, to support culturally responsive teaching and high achievement for all students.

• Initiates, facilitates, designs, and implements programs and scheduling to meet student needs.

• Attends special events held to recognize student achievement, attends school sponsored activities, and functions.

• Maintains a clear and open communication process with all the internal and external school community. Keeps the school population informed of policy changes, new programs, opportunities, etc.

• Acts as a liaison between the school and the local community encouraging the community to participate in the educational process as part of the overall school life. Develops a program of public relations to further the communities understanding and support of educational programs.

• Keeps updated on changes and developments in the profession by attending professional meetings, reading professional journals, and other publications and discussing contemporary issues with colleagues and maintains commitment to educational technology.

• Together with central office staff, coordinates and supervises support functions, such as maintenance, security, food services, recreational programs, library activities and financial/budgeting and accounting functions, etc.

• Consistent, reliable, and punctual attendance is essential for supervision and instruction of the students.

• Responsible for implementing "other job-related duties" as needed.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements:

This position is in a typical school and office setting. Some bending, reaching, lifting may be required. May be responsible for diffusing difficult situations including student restraint. Transportation is required.

Date Updated: 3/8/24