Job Title: Principal
Location: Weldon City Schools, North Carolina
Reports To: Superintendent
FLSA Status: Exempt
Work Year: 12 Months

Position Summary

The Principal of Weldon Elementary School serves as the instructional leader and chief administrator of the school, fostering a safe, inclusive, and high-achieving learning environment where all students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. The Principal is responsible for leading instructional excellence, supporting staff development, promoting positive school culture, engaging families and the community, and ensuring effective school operations aligned with district goals and state standards.

The Principal will champion innovative teaching and learning practices, data-informed decision-making, equity-centered leadership, and collaborative partnerships to prepare students for future success.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Instructional Leadership

• Develop, implement, and monitor a shared vision for academic excellence and continuous school improvement.
• Lead the implementation of rigorous, standards-aligned curriculum and instructional practices.
• Utilize student achievement data and assessment results to drive instructional decisions and school improvement initiatives.
• Conduct regular classroom observations and provide constructive feedback to instructional staff.
• Promote differentiated instruction and interventions that support diverse learners.
• Support the integration of technology and innovative instructional strategies to enhance student engagement and achievement.
• Foster a culture of high expectations, accountability, and continuous improvement.

School Culture and Climate

• Create and sustain a positive, student-centered school culture that promotes safety, respect, equity, and belonging.
• Build strong relationships with students, families, staff, and community stakeholders.
• Promote social-emotional learning and restorative practices.
• Address student discipline issues fairly and consistently in accordance with district policies.
• Support attendance improvement initiatives and student wellness programs.

Staff Leadership and Development

• Recruit, supervise, evaluate, and support certified and classified staff.
• Facilitate professional learning opportunities aligned with school and district priorities.
• Build collaborative teams focused on instructional excellence and student success.
• Encourage leadership development among faculty and staff.
• Promote effective communication, trust, and teamwork.

Operational and Organizational Management

• Manage daily school operations effectively and efficiently.
• Develop and oversee the school budget in alignment with district guidelines.
• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and district regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Coordinate school safety procedures, emergency preparedness plans, and crisis response protocols.
• Oversee scheduling, facilities management, transportation coordination, and operational logistics.
• Maintain accurate records and prepare required reports in a timely manner.

Family and Community Engagement

• Develop strong partnerships with parents, community organizations, and local stakeholders.
• Communicate regularly and effectively with families regarding student achievement, school initiatives, and events.
• Encourage meaningful family engagement in the educational process.
• Represent the school positively within the district and broader community.

Equity and Student Support

• Promote equitable access to high-quality instruction and support services for all students.
• Collaborate with counselors, interventionists, special education staff, and support personnel to address student needs.
• Advocate for programs and resources that support academic achievement and student well-being.
• Ensure compliance with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), Section 504 plans, and related student support requirements.

Qualifications

Education and Certification

• Master’s degree in Educational Leadership, Administration, or a related field required.
• Valid state principal licensure/certification required.
• Doctoral degree preferred.

Experience

• Minimum of three to five years of successful teaching experience required.
• Prior administrative or instructional leadership experience preferred.
• Demonstrated success in improving student achievement and leading school improvement initiatives.
• Experience working in elementary school settings is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong instructional leadership and curriculum knowledge.
• Knowledge of elementary education best practices, assessment systems, and school improvement processes.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Ability to analyze and use data to improve student outcomes.
• Ability to build positive relationships and collaborative teams.
• Strong problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills.
• Demonstrated commitment to equity, inclusion, and student-centered leadership.
• Proficiency in educational technology and school management systems.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to move throughout the school campus and supervise activities.
• Ability to communicate effectively in person and electronically.
• Ability to occasionally lift or move items weighing up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to work extended or flexible hours as needed for school events and responsibilities.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this position. The Principal works in a school setting with frequent interaction with students, staff, families, and community members. The role may require attendance at evening and weekend events.

Evaluation

Performance will be evaluated in accordance with district policies, administrative standards, and school leadership expectations.

Disclaimer

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by an individual assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Weldon City Schools reserves the right to revise this job description as needed.