Principal

PRIMARY FUNCTION: 

The Principal of Charles Ellis Montessori School serves as the instructional and operational leader of a American Montessori Society(AMS)-certified school. The Principal is responsible for upholding the core tenets of the Montessori philosophy while ensuring alignment with SCCPSS goals and Georgia Department of Education standards. This role promotes a child-centered, developmentally responsive approach to teaching and learning, and fosters a collaborative culture for students, staff, and families.

REPORTS TO:  School Support Officer

SALARY SCHEDULE:  Principal

WORK DAYS:  229

REQUIREMENTS:

Educational Level: Master’s degree from an accredited college or university

Preferred: Earned Doctorate

Experience, Skill and Certification: 

• Eligible for Georgia Leadership certification, Tier II.
• Willing to enroll and pursue additional graduate course work in administration and supervision
• At least six years successful experience in education
• At least two years of administrative or supervisory experience in education and at least one of these years as an Assistant Principal OR two years principal experience.
• Internal candidates must not be on a professional development plan at the time of application.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

Montessori Leadership & Vision

Promotes and protects the integrity of the Montessori Method in a public-school setting.

Partners with instructional staff and district leaders to integrate Montessori curriculum within state and district accountability frameworks.

Ensures all classrooms meet Montessori Prepared Environment standards and supports fidelity to multi-age groupings, uninterrupted work cycles, and the use of Montessori materials.

Student-Centered School Culture

Fosters a peaceful, and respectful learning environment where students develop independence, critical thinking, and a love for lifelong learning.

Implements restorative practices aligned with Montessori principles for student discipline and conflict resolution.

Collaborative School Governance

Facilitates a shared leadership model, supporting the School Council, Family Engagement team, and staff committees.

Encourages staff voice in decision-making and cultivates authentic family-school partnerships.

Instructional Leadership

Supports a coaching culture among Montessori-trained teachers, interventionists, and support staff.

Leads data-informed practices that respect whole-child development and guide individualized instruction.

Partners with district academic services to ensure instructional rigor and compliance.

Organizational Management

Oversees operational functions including budgeting, scheduling, facilities, and school safety with efficiency and transparency.

Develops the master schedule to support uninterrupted Montessori work cycles, enrichment programs, and teacher planning.

Professional Development

Facilitates ongoing Montessori-specific and district-required training for staff.

Coaches and evaluates certified and classified personnel with an emphasis on reflection, growth, and development.

Data & Compliance

Monitors and reports student progress using district and Montessori-aligned assessment tools.

Ensures all records, staffing, testing, and accountability reports are completed accurately and on time.

Community Engagement

Serves as the school’s ambassador to parents, the community, and national Montessori networks.

Celebrates student learning through exhibitions, events, and outreach that reflect the Montessori mission and school priorities.

Other Duties

Performs additional responsibilities to advance the effectiveness and mission of Charles Ellis Montessori Academy and SCCPSS.