Assistant Principal-Ellsworth High School

Ellsworth High School is seeking a visionary, innovative, and collaborative leader to join our administrative team as Assistant Principal.

The Assistant Principal role focuses on building a positive and future-focused culture for students in grades 9–12, advancing engaging and real-world instructional practices, strengthening student supports, and ensuring a safe learning environment that prepares students for success beyond graduation.

Key Areas of Focus & Innovation

• Strategic Plan Leadership: Play a lead role in operationalizing the district’s new strategic plan, turning goals into daily practices that elevate student achievement and engagement.
• Future-Ready Pathways: Support the development of innovative academic programming, including extended learning opportunities (ELOs), career and technical education (CTE) integration, and flexible pathways to graduation.
• Restorative & Proactive Culture: Shift high school discipline from traditional punitive measures to a restorative justice framework that emphasizes accountability, personal growth, and emotional safety.
• Data-Informed Leadership: Utilize data analytics and MTSS practices to monitor student attendance, behavior, engagement, and academic progress, implementing proactive and targeted interventions to support students before they fall behind.
  
  

Performance Responsibilities

• Instructional Leadership & Innovation
• Model and support differentiated, 21st century instructional strategies, including project-based learning, technology integration, and student-centered classrooms.
• Evaluate and mentor faculty, fostering an environment where teachers feel empowered to take calculated risks and innovate by providing frequent feedback for growth.
• Collaborate with the Principal on initiatives that align with the District's new strategic plan.
• School Culture & Student Support
• Oversee student attendance, conduct, and wellness initiatives, fostering a positive high school environment focused on student belonging, engagement, accountability, and support.
• Champion student voice and agency
• Partner with school counselors, social workers, and community-based resources to strengthen the school’s multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS).
• Operational & Community Leadership
• Manage day-to-day high school operations, including master scheduling, safety training and drills, and extracurricular activities.
• Build strong, transparent relationships with Ellsworth families, local businesses, and community stakeholders to expand real-world learning opportunities for students.
• Serve as a visible, high-energy presence at school events, co-curricular events, and community functions.
  
  

Qualifications & Competencies

Requirement

Description

Certification

Maine Department of Education Assistant Principal / Administrator Certificate (045) or eligibility for certification.

Experience

Minimum of 3–5 years of successful classroom teaching or leadership experience, preferably at the high school level.

Mindset

An innovative changemaker who values relationships, continuous improvement, and the development of “The Ellsworth Way” — advancing exceptional teaching, learning, and opportunities for all students while respecting the strengths and traditions of the community.

Skills

Exceptional emotional intelligence, restorative communication skills, and comfort using technology/data platforms.

For further details, or questions, contact Nikki Chan, Assistant Superintendent, at 664-7101, or by email at nchan@ellsworthschools.org.

Applications can be found on our website, or by calling the Office of the Superintendent at 664-7101.

Complete application packets should be returned to the Office of the Superintendent, 11 Avery Lane, Ellsworth, ME 04605, or by email to taustin@ellsworthschools.org

The Ellsworth School Department in as Equal Opportunity Employer