What are the responsibilities and job description for the Principal, River Ridge Elementary School, 2026-2027 position at River Ridge Elementary School?
POSITION: Principal, River Ridge Elementary School
QUALIFICATIONS: The ideal candidate will hold at least a master’s degree, with an education specialist degree preferred, and demonstrate a minimum of five years of successful teaching experience along with at least three years of administrative experience.
REPORTS TO: Superintendent
GENERAL SUMMARY:
Provides forward-thinking leadership in designing, implementing, and evaluating a comprehensive educational program that aligns with laws, board policies, and district expectations. Guides staff in using effective instructional practices and continuous improvement strategies to support every learner. Ensures the school environment is safe, welcoming, and conducive to teaching, learning, and staff collaboration.
PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:
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Leads the development, communication, and ongoing monitoring of a shared vision for student success that reflects high expectations for academic and personal growth.
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Serves as the instructional leader by guiding teachers in improving instruction, supporting personalized learning, and using evidence-based practices to strengthen student outcomes.
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Observes classrooms, provides coaching and actionable feedback, and supports teachers in implementing effective instructional strategies and interventions.
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Uses multiple sources of data to track student progress, set measurable goals, and lead regular conversations with staff about achievement, growth, and school climate.
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Builds and nurtures a positive staff culture grounded in trust, collaboration, and respect. Encourages teamwork, recognizes strengths, and provides clear expectations and support.
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Recruits, hires, develops, evaluates, and retains high-quality staff. Creates professional learning plans that align to school goals and grow emerging teacher leaders.
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Oversees discipline and attendance systems that are consistent, fair, and aligned to the school’s mission. Promotes a safe, orderly environment where students take responsibility for their behavior.
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Manages school operations, resources, and facilities effectively. Develops and monitors the school budget and ensures responsible use of fiscal resources.
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Delegates responsibilities appropriately and builds leadership capacity among staff to support schoolwide goals and continuous improvement.
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Strengthens partnerships with families, community organizations, and local agencies to support student learning, well-being, and engagement. Communicates clearly and consistently with all stakeholders.
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Works closely with district leaders, keeping the Superintendent informed about school progress, accomplishments, and emerging needs.
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Ensures compliance with district, state, and federal policies. Plans, implements, and evaluates schoolwide programs, goals, and procedures.
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Maintains a safe school environment by implementing safety protocols, leading emergency drills, and ensuring readiness through a comprehensive crisis plan.
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Demonstrates a commitment to professional learning through participation in organizations, conferences, and study of current research in school leadership.
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Performs other duties as assigned by the Superintendent or designee.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
School environment with no significant exposure to environmental conditions. Requires the ability to work under a degree of stress related to duties that require considerable attention and working with students. Physical demands are restricted to school activities requiring movement/lifting items weighing up to 25 pounds. Occasional local travel required; occasional overnight travel required.
DISCLAIMER STATEMENT:
This job description is not intended as a complete listing of job duties. The incumbent is responsible for performing other related duties as assigned/required.
Contract Length: 235 Days
Salary: Administrative Salary Schedule
To apply, please upload a resume and cover letter.
Statement of Non-Discrimination
Discrimination of all persons is prohibited with regard to employment and any other program or activity on the basis of race, religion, sex, national origin, age, color, immigrant status, English speaking status or disabling condition in District Five Schools of Spartanburg County as required by Title IX of the Educational Amendments Act of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, and the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as amended. Section 504 Coordinator, Director of Special Services; Title IX Coordinator, Chief Administrative Officer.