Elementary Principal - Neary Elementary School

Department:

Administration

Job Title:

Elementary School Principal

FLSA Status:

(Exempt/Non-exempt)

Exempt - Non-aligned

Reports to:

Superintendent of Schools

GENERAL DESCRIPTION (1-3 LINES DESCRIBING ROLE):

The Principal is the chief administrative officer of the school and is directly responsible for shaping a positive school climate, providing educational leadership and ensuring the smooth day-to-day operation of the school. They report directly to the Superintendent of Schools, working under the policies of the School Committee 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 a Master's degree from an accredited college or university; Advanced degree preferred
• At least 7 years of successful classroom teaching experience, preferably at the elementary school level; prior experience as a school Administrator/Principal preferred.
• Strong background in K-12 curriculum, state curriculum frameworks, and the development of a high-quality instructional practice based on evidence. Experience and expertise in supervising and evaluating educators 
• Skills in program and staff development
• Skills in organizational behavior and management
• Strong commitment to fostering an inclusive community

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES (NOT LIMITED TO):

Instructional Leadership

• Leads curriculum and instructional initiatives to meet the diverse academic needs of elementary students.
• Cultivates a creative, innovative, and student-centered learning environment in which all students are supported and inspired to excel.
• Guides the collaborative analysis of student data to set goals, monitor progress, and inform instructional decision-making for individuals, groups, and the student population.
• Partners with the Student Support Services Department, Multilingual Learner Department, and District leaders to ensure educational programs and supports meet the needs of all learners and families.
• Collaborates with central office administrators and school leaders to advance District and school strategic initiatives, coordinate professional learning, and support school and community events.

School Climate & Culture

• Fosters and actively participates in the creation of a culturally and linguistically sustaining, inclusive environment for students, staff, and families.
• Establishes and upholds clear expectations for student behavior, supporting Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and appropriate responses to unexpected behaviors.
• Promotes a positive, respectful, and engaging school climate that motivates all students to participate in continuous learning and personal development.

Operational & Program Leadership

• Designs, implements, and evaluates programs and services that meet the academic, social, and developmental needs of students.
• Collaborates with District and school staff to develop and manage a school schedule aligned with state and District policies and guidelines.
• Maintains open, transparent communication with internal and external stakeholders, ensuring timely dissemination of important information, policy updates, programs, and opportunities.
• Serves as a liaison between the school and the local community, promoting engagement and building public understanding and support of the school’s mission and programs.
• Works with central administration to address and resolve school-related operational issues, including transportation, facilities, student services, and general operations.
• Coordinates and supervises support services—including maintenance, security, food services, library operations, recreational programs, and budgeting/financial processes.

Human Capital Management

• Sets clear expectations for staff performance and provides ongoing feedback, coaching, evaluations, and support to promote professional growth.
• Encourages a collaborative, reflective, and high-performing staff culture aligned with District values and goals.

Professional Responsibilities

• Stays current on educational research, policies, and best practices by attending professional meetings, reading professional publications, and collaborating with colleagues.
• Demonstrates a strong commitment to integrating technology effectively into teaching, learning, and school operations.
• Participates in school-sponsored activities, special events, and student recognition programs.
• Maintains consistent, punctual attendance and fulfills all required administrative responsibilities.
• Performs other duties as assigned to support the success of the school and district.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Work Environment:  

Work is generally performed in a school environment during the school day, however there will be occasions for afterschool and evening meetings.

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this job, the Principal is frequently required to walk, stand, sit, talk, and hear.  The Principal is regularly required to bend, stoop, crouch and/or kneel.  The Principal is occasionally required to lift and/or move objects weighing up to 25 pounds.  Must have sufficient mobility to navigate within a large school building. Must have reliable transportation.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.