Principal Secondary School (Specialized Treatment Center, STC)

Job Overview We are seeking a dynamic and visionary School Principal to lead our educational community with energy, dedication, and strategic insight. As the chief leader of the school, you will be responsible for fostering an inspiring learning environment, ensuring academic excellence, and promoting a positive school culture. Your role will involve overseeing daily operations, guiding staff development, engaging with students and families, and driving the school's mission forward with enthusiasm and clarity. Additionally, you will serve as the instructional and operational leader responsible for ensuring that all educational programming aligns with the requirements of the Alabama State Department of Education (ALSDE). This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate leader committed to shaping the future of education and empowering both staff and students to thrive. Key Duties and Responsibilities 1. Curriculum & Instructional Compliance Oversight - 40% Ensure full implementation of the Alabama Course of Study (ACOS) across all content areas, including adaptations for students in restrictive and therapeutic settings. Monitor and enforce compliance with the Alabama Teacher Growth Program (ATGP) and utilize the Alabama Teacher Observation Tool (ATOT) to evaluate instructional effectiveness. Is the additional source of clarity and insight with regards to Edmentum and PowerSchools. Basic knowledge of secondary subjects. Oversee development, implementation, and monitoring of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) , ensuring timelines, team composition, and services meet ALSDE and federal IDEA requirements. Ensure all instruction reflects specially designed instruction tailored to student needs, including modifications to content, methodology, and delivery. Lead compliance with ALSDE Special Education Services monitoring processes, including corrective action and resolution of noncompliance within required timelines. Conduct ongoing audits of lesson plans, instructional delivery, grading practices, and student progress to ensure alignment with state standards and IEP goals. Oversee implementation of Alabama Multi-Tier System of Supports (AL-MTSS) and data-driven instructional practices. Ensure all students, regardless of placement, have access to and make progress in the general curriculum as required by law. Analyze student performance data (e.g., ACAP, progress monitoring, behavioral data) to guide continuous instructional improvement. 2. Administrative Management - 25% Direct all school operations, including scheduling, staffing, budgeting, and compliance reporting aligned with ALSDE expectations. Is the finial reviewer of CNP monthly reports and LEE Russell Transit report. Supervise, evaluate, and support all instructional and support personnel in accordance with state evaluation systems. Implement and monitor policies aligned with Alabama administrative code, STC requirements, and local education agency (LEA) expectations. Ensure proper maintenance of student records, including attendance, discipline, IEP documentation, and state reporting. Coordinate staffing to meet state-mandated qualifications for educators serving exceptional students. Lead school safety planning consistent with ALSDE Safe Schools guidance and threat assessment protocols. Oversee facility operations in coordination with STC leadership to maintain a secure, therapeutic learning environment. 3. Student Support & Therapeutic Integration - 15% Collaborate with clinical and treatment teams to align educational programming with individualized treatment plans. Ensure implementation of Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) and positive behavioral supports aligned with ALSDE and IDEA discipline provisions. Serves as the first level of defense for behaviors. Provides general oversight of the day-to-day operations of CADS. Promote trauma-informed practices and structured behavioral systems appropriate for STC populations. Ensure compliance with least restrictive environment (LRE) considerations while maintaining safety and treatment integrity. Support crisis response, de-escalation protocols, and reintegration planning for students transitioning to less restrictive settings. 4. Staff Development & Instructional Leadership - 10% Lead professional learning aligned with the Alabama Principal Leadership Development System (APLDS) and state-approved professional development requirements. Provide training in IEP compliance, instructional best practices, behavior management, and trauma-informed care. Brings suggestions and Professional Development opportunities for the faculty and staff. Facilitate Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) focused on curriculum, instruction, and student outcomes. Build staff capacity to implement high-quality instruction for students with disabilities and complex needs. 5. Family, LEA & Stakeholder Engagement - 5% Serve as liaison between the STC, resident school districts, families, and external agencies. Facilitate compliant and collaborative IEP meetings with required team members and parent participation. Communicate student progress, transition planning, and educational decisions clearly and consistently. Support coordination of services across multiple agencies (education, mental health, juvenile justice, etc.). 6. Compliance Reporting & Documentation - 5% Ensure timely submission of all ALSDE-required reports, including special education data, discipline, and accountability measures. Maintain compliance with FERPA, IDEA, and applicable HIPAA considerations within the STC setting. Oversee documentation for audits, monitoring visits, and accreditation processes. Track and resolve compliance findings within ALSDE-required timelines.

Pay:

$65,000.00 - $75,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Health insurance Health savings account Vision insurance

Education:

Master's (Required)

Experience:

Teaching:

5 years (Required) School administration: 2 years (Required) Special education: 1 year (Preferred)

Work Location:

In person