Middle School Principal

Job Title:
Middle School Principal

Location:

Mascoutah Middle School

Reports To:

Superintendent, Directly to Assistant Superintendent of Administrative Services
Work Days: 240 days - Effective Date of Employment is July 2026

FLSA Status:
Exempt

Salary:
Salary range is $_________________plus Board paid TRS and benefits options available. Salary placement will be determined by graduate degree/hours and level of experience.

To serve as the chief administrator and instructional leader of a middle school (Grades 6-8). The Principal is responsible for creating a safe, developmentally appropriate, and rigorous learning environment that fosters the transition from elementary to secondary education. This role focuses on academic excellence, early career exploration, and the unique social‑emotional needs of young adolescents. The Principal oversees all school operations, including staff supervision, curriculum implementation, budgetary management, and the integration of middle school athletics and clubs.

Certification/License:

Current Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) with a General Administrative or Principal Endorsement.

Motor Vehicle Operator’s License or ability to provide own transportation.

Education:

Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership or Administration from an accredited institution. Doctorate (Ed.D. or Ph.D.) in Education or related field preferred.

Completion of the Illinois Teacher Evaluator Competencies (Teacher Evaluation Modules).

Experience:

Extensive successful teaching experience at the middle school or junior high level.

Minimum of 3–5 years of successful administrative experience (e.g., Assistant Principal or Principal). Middle School level preferred.

Essential duties of this position include the following. Employees in this position perform some or all of the following tasks. Other duties may be assigned.

• Instructional Leadership:
  Provides vision and direction for the 6‑8 instructional program; ensures curriculum is aligned with Illinois Learning Standards and focuses on bridge‑building between foundational skills and high school rigor.
• Personnel Management:
  Supervises and evaluates a diverse staff, including Assistant Principals, Team Leaders, faculty, and support staff, in accordance with the Illinois Performance Evaluation Reform Act (PERA).
• Student Achievement:
  Analyzes standardized testing data (IAR – Illinois Assessment of Readiness), MAP scores, and formative assessments to formulate school improvement plans and implement targeted interventions.
• Social‑Emotional Development:
  Spearheads a school culture that addresses the specific needs of early adolescence, implementing robust SEL (Social‑Emotional Learning) programs and restorative justice practices.
• Culture and Safety:
  Establishes a positive school climate; manages student discipline systems (consistent with Illinois SB 100); and ensures the implementation of the school’s safety and emergency protocols.
• Fiscal Management:
  Manages the middle school budget, including activity accounts, supply allocations, and grant funds, ensuring compliance with district policy and state law.
• Teaming and
  
  Collaboration:
  
  Oversees the “middle school model” of interdisciplinary teaming to ensure holistic support for students and effective professional learning communities (PLCs) among staff.
• Transition Planning:
  Coordinates with elementary “feeder” schools and the district high school to ensure smooth academic and social transitions for incoming 6th graders and outgoing 8th graders.
• Extracurriculars & Athletics:
  Supervise and support the Athletic Director(s) and club sponsors in overseeing middle school athletic programs and student clubs, ensuring equity, high participation rates, and proper supervision at after‑school events.
• Community Relations:
  Serves as the primary liaison between the school and the community; maintain active communication with parents/guardians, PTO/PTA, and local youth service organizations.
• Organizational Efficiency:
  Maintain proactive communication across school systems, collaborating with central office for performance support, and fostering a supportive…