What are the responsibilities and job description for the ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL position at Gillion Academy?
Location- Springfield, Virginia (On-site)
Type- Full-Time, 12-Month Salaried
Compensation-Competitive, commensurate with experience
Reports To- Head of School
ABOUT US
The Gillion Academy is a 7th–12th grade boys’ college-preparatory academy and prep school that integrates accredited academics with elite basketball training under one roof. Based in the DMV area, we serve student-athletes through a 360-degree development model combining rigorous education, life-skills training, and year-round athletics. Our leadership has helped 200 athletes reach the collegiate level and 50 reach the professional ranks.
A nationally accredited (Cognia / WASC), NCAA-certified program, Gillion is built on three core values: Hard Work, Accountability, and Leadership. It’s a place where greatness is the expectation — in the classroom and in life.
THE OPPORTUNITY
We are seeking a dynamic, mission-driven Assistant Principal to serve as a key member of our senior leadership team. Reporting directly to the Head of School, the Assistant Principal is a true administrative leader responsible for the daily operation, academic quality, student culture, and disciplinary climate of the Academy.
This is a high-impact role for an experienced school administrator who thrives in a fast-paced, athletics-integrated environment and wants real ownership over the culture and academic excellence of a growing academy. The ideal candidate is an instructional leader, a steady hand with students and families, and an operational problem-solver who holds high standards for themselves and others.
WHAT YOU’LL DO
Academic & Instructional Leadership
- Partner with the Head of School to lead the day-to-day administration and instructional leadership of the Academy Observe classrooms, provide feedback and coaching to teachers, and support the development of best practices in curriculum and instruction Support faithful implementation of our hybrid academic model (accredited online coursework supported by in-person licensed teachers), ensuring mastery and accountability Ensure compliance with Virginia private school regulations, Cognia accreditation standards, and Academy policies
Student Discipline & Culture
- Oversee and enforce student discipline policies in a fair, consistent, and developmentally appropriate manner Maintain accurate discipline, attendance, and incident records Champion a school-wide culture of focus, accountability, and purpose
Operations & Scheduling
- Manage the daily schedule, faculty coverage, and operational logistics of the school Coordinate and lead student assemblies, orientation programs, parent information sessions, and school events
Family & Community Partnership
- Serve as a liaison between faculty, families, and the senior administrative team Communicate proactively and professionally with parents and guardians regarding student progress and behavioral matters
Faculty Support & Compliance
- Assist in the recruitment, onboarding, mentoring, and evaluation of faculty and staff Maintain accurate student records and administrative documentation required by law and Academy policy Support compliance with FERPA, Section 504, ADA, and IDEA obligations, including IEP and 504 plan implementation
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR
Required
- Bachelor’s degree (Master’s in Education, Educational Leadership, or Administration strongly preferred) Proven experience in school administration, instructional leadership, or a senior dean/teacher-leader role Demonstrated ability to lead discipline and build positive culture in a 7th–12th grade environment Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills Comfort with technology, electronic communications, and hybrid/online academic platforms Successful completion of Virginia criminal background and Child Abuse & Neglect Registry checks Willingness to work a flexible, extended schedule that may include some evenings, weekends, and school events
Preferred
- Experience in a private school, prep school, or student-athlete-focused environment Familiarity with Cognia accreditation standards, IEPs/504 plans, and FERPA compliance Track record of improving academic outcomes and school culture
A note on credentials: As a private institution, Gillion sets its own qualification standards. Virginia (VDOE) state licensure is not required for this role, though relevant administrative credentials are highly valued.
WHAT WE OFFER
- Competitive compensation, commensurate with experience, paid over 12 months (school breaks and holidays are incorporated into the salary structure) Eligibility for Academy benefit programs A state-of-the-art Springfield facility and a tight-knit, mission-driven team The chance to make a direct, visible impact on young men’s lives Professional growth planning and ongoing development opportunities
HOW TO APPLY
Submit your resume and a brief cover letter describing your leadership philosophy and your interest in a student-athlete-centered academy. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Direct inquiries to the Head of School, Darrance Gillion, at darrancegillion@gillionacademy.org.
The Gillion Academy is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, religion, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal or Virginia law.
Building leaders — in the classroom and in life.
Pay: $70,000.00 - $85,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
Salary : $70,000 - $85,000