Alternative School Principal

Internal applicants only Payette School District 2026-2027 School Year Opening Principal - Payette Academy (Grades 6-12)

JOB SUMMARY

The Principal of Payette Academy serves as the instructional, operational, and cultural leader of a Grades 6-12 alternative learning environment. The principal is responsible for ensuring that students who may be at risk, credit-deficient, or in need of alternative supports have access to meaningful learning opportunities that lead to academic growth, graduation, and postsecondary readiness. This position requires a highly adaptable, student-centered leader who can build strong relationships, support diverse and often complex student needs, and create a structured yet flexible environment. The principal will lead efforts in credit recovery, behavioral supports, and individualized pathways while maintaining a safe, supportive, and accountable school culture.

QUALIFICATIONS

Valid Idaho Administrator Certificate (PK-12) required Master's degree in Educational Leadership or related field preferred Minimum of three (3) years of successful teaching experience Previous administrative or instructional leadership experience preferred Strong knowledge of middle school philosophy and adolescent development Experience leading school improvement initiatives and data-driven decision-making Knowledge of Idaho Content Standards and state assessment systems Demonstrated ability to support diverse learners, including special education, EL, and at-risk populations Strong background in student discipline systems, restorative practices, and positive behavior supports Understanding of federal and state education laws (IDEA, ADA, 504, ESSA) Experience working collaboratively with parents and community stakeholders Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills Ability to manage budgets, staffing, and school operations Maintain confidentiality of student and personnel information

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITY TO

Superintendent

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Instructional Leadership Lead implementation of flexible, student-centered instructional models Oversee credit recovery, alternative pathways, and individualized learning plans Support staff in differentiating instruction for students with varied academic needs Use data to monitor student progress, credit attainment, and graduation pathways Ensure alignment with district standards while maintaining flexibility for alternative settings Alternative Programming & Student Success Develop and maintain systems to support students who are credit-deficient or at risk of not graduating Implement intervention strategies that address academic, behavioral, and attendance barriers Support transition planning for students entering or exiting the alternative setting Ensure students have access to post-secondary opportunities, including CTE and workforce readiness School Climate & Student Support Establish a safe, structured, and relationship-centered environment Implement behavior systems that emphasize accountability, restoration, and student growth Support students with complex behavioral and social-emotional needs Oversee attendance interventions and re-engagement strategies Ensure compliance with special education, 504, EL, and McKinney-Vento requirements Personnel Leadership Recruit, supervise, and evaluate staff working with high-need students Promote a collaborative, supportive team culture Provide coaching and support for staff managing challenging student behaviors Facilitate clear communication and shared expectations among staff Change Leadership and Program Development Lead continuous improvement efforts focused on student outcomes and engagement Develop innovative approaches to meet evolving student needs Monitor the effectiveness of alternative programs and adjust as needed Build systems that improve consistency, accountability, and student success Family & Community Engagement Build strong relationships with families, recognizing the unique needs of the population served Communicate clearly and consistently with parents/guardians Partner with community agencies to support student needs (mental health, housing, etc.) Promote student success through collaboration with external partners Operational Oversight Manage school budget, staffing, and resources Coordinate flexible scheduling and programming Oversee building safety, procedures, and compliance requirements Ensure accurate reporting for state, federal, and program accountability Professional Responsibilities Participate in district leadership meetings and initiatives Support district goals while advocating for alternative education needs Maintain professional growth in alternative education, behavior supports, and leadership Uphold all district policies and Idaho Code requirements

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

Candidates should upload the following: Cover letter Resume Copy of Idaho Administrator Certificate Copies of college transcripts Three (3) professional references

COMPENSATION

Salary and contract terms are based on district administrative salary schedules and experience. Position qualifies for benefits including health, dental, vision, and life insurance; PERSI retirement; and access to optional ancillary insurance and retirement products. Payette School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer as defined and required by state and federal laws. Positions are open until filled. All recommendations for hire are tentative offers. Employment is contingent upon Board approval and successful completion of a federal background check and drug-free workplace screening (if required). Regular attendance is an essential function of this position. All certificated and non-certificated employees are required to undergo a criminal history check and submit to fingerprinting, as required by Idaho Code. Legal Reference I.C. § 33-512 Governance of Schools I.C. § 33-513 Professional Personnel I.C. § 33-515 Issuance of Renewable Contracts I.C. § 33-1210 Information on Past Job Performance

IDAPA 08.02.02

Administrator Certification Standards Apply Now