What are the responsibilities and job description for the Principal - Elementary (2026-27) position at Franklin County Schools?
Instructional Leadership
• Facilitate the development of programs and monitor the implementation of curriculum that meets the needs of all students.
• Analyze and utilize all summative, formative, and common summative data for the improvement of curriculum for instruction and student achievement.
• Maintain a school-wide climate and organization for learning (high expectations, cooperation, support, positive attitudes, etc.).
• Facilitate the development of curriculum/instructional programs based on research findings and needs assessment results.
• Identify and communicate effective teaching strategies, classroom management strategies, and strategies for altering inappropriate pupil behaviors.
• Incorporate the effective use of technology into the management and instructional processes.
• Provide on-going technical assistance to teachers and staff.
• Work with special education teachers in the implementation of IEPs for the identified students in order to appropriately modify instruction, services and expectations.
• Work with the staff to provide appropriate RTIs for identified students with special needs.
• Oversee PLCs - monitor weekly logs, notes, and planned activities.
Program Planning
• Identify and communicate instructional planning strategies.
• Determine priorities based on assessed needs, financial capabilities, expertise, time-lines, and resources.
• Develop and implement the School Improvement Plan encompassing goals, objectives, activities, time-lines, and resources.
• Develop a school plan for professional development.
• Supervise the re-evaluation and the adjustment of curriculum/instructional programs as needed.
• Supervise the guidance program to enhance student education and development.
• Utilize staff in curriculum and instructional improvement.
• Organize for maximum time for academic achievement.
• Plan, organize, and direct implementation of all school activities.
• Develop schedules for classroom observations, conferences and follow-up activities.
• Coordinate the athletic program (when applicable); maintain the program in conjunction with all TSSAA rules and regulations.
School Management
• Utilize effective interview and selection process before recommending the candidate which best fits the opening.
• Assign personnel to positions, which ensure optimum performance and equitable distribution of assignments.
• Evaluate the performance of personnel to ultimately enhance student achievement.
• Plan and conduct staff development activities to improve competencies of school personnel.
• Utilize strategies which lead to a higher level of motivation.
• Organize and supervise support service personnel for optimum performance.
• Facilitate positive attitudes of faculty and staff.
• Conduct classified and certified staff meetings to keep members informed of the policy changes, new programs, and related concerns.
• Recognize and reward, when possible, faculty, staff, and students for quality work.
• Establish a guide for proper student conduct and maintaining student discipline according to established board policies.
• Provide due process procedures required for the appropriate management of school employees and students.
• Prepare and supervise the preparation of reports, records, lists, and all other paperwork required or appropriate to the schools administration, attendance, and reporting student progress.
• Plan and supervise fire drills, earthquake drills, lockdown drills and emergency preparedness programs.
• Coordinate planning and work of the administrative staff.
• Delegate responsibility for certain tasks to administrative staff, counselors, and others when appropriate.
• Coordinate curriculum development activities of the school in cooperation with the Director of Curriculum and Instruction.
Community Relations
• Involve parents in the activities of the school.
• Assess community expectations and perceptions of school performance.
• Communicate with citizenry by a variety of means (i.e., media, newsletters, and meetings).
• Utilize community resources to support programs and services including parent volunteers.
• Conduct regular advisory committee meetings.
• Accommodate appropriate request to use school facilities.
• Establish and maintain favorable relationships with local community groups and individuals to foster understanding and solicit support for overall school objectives and programs.
• Work with other schools and organizations in a professional manner.
Business Management
• Maintain fiscal accountability system.
• Develop and monitor financial plan (budget) based on programs/service priorities and financial capabilities.
• Organize and involve teaching staff in monitoring and developing a financial plan for instructional needs.
• Work closely with the Facility Manager and/or Supervisor of Maintenance; inspecting the building and grounds, seeking assistance when needed.
• Utilize a system for purchasing and inventory control (i.e. textbooks.)
• Manage financial resources in a most cost-effective manner.
• Apply local and state school board regulations and identified best practices to business management decisions.
Interpersonal Relationships
• Demonstrate effective written communication skills with all publics.
• Demonstrate effective oral communication skills with all publics.
• Manage change and new programs by utilizing effective change and pacing strategies.
• Solve problems utilizing a variety of techniques.
• Make decisions from a base of relative information.
• Utilize a process for involving personnel in decision-making activities, including faculty meetings, grade or department meetings, etc.
• Facilitate discussions and decision making sessions efficiently and productivity.
• Plan and facilitate meetings for optimum use of time and resources.
• Manage conflict situations in an effective manner.
• Listen carefully to all stakeholders.
• Keep the Director of Schools informed of the school activities and problems.
Professional Development
• Attend workshops, institutes, courses, and conferences relevant to continuing professional development, and management of the school programs.
• Demonstrate knowledge of current professional literature and materials including the effective school research.
• Demonstrate effective time management practices.
• React to stress situations in a reasonably calm and positive manner.
• Meet timelines and deadlines as requested.
• Conduct self and the management of the administrative office in an organized and business-like manner.
• Exhibit dependability in carrying out assigned responsibilities.
• Accept constructive criticism.
• Exhibit assertiveness as appropriate in dealing with administrative responsibilities.
• Participate in the system's administrative meetings in a positive, helpful and resourceful way.
• Perform professional responsibilities and duties as outlined in the job description including regular attendance and punctuality.
• Assume responsibility for school-related activities that extend beyond the school day.
• Work with Central Office staff and other support personnel on school programs and goals related to instruction, transportation, professional staff development, and special services.
• Perform other duties consistent with the position assigned as may be requested by the Director of Schools.
• Adheres to professional Codes of Ethics.