School Principal-Upper School Grades 7-12

The principal of the Upper School is its educational leader and has the final responsibility for decisions that affect admissions, curriculum, and the academic environment of grades 7-12. The Upper School Principal reports to the Executive Director and is responsible for maintaining the mission, vision and educational philosophy and mission of South Shore Charter Public School. To accomplish this, one of the most important responsibilities of the Upper School Principal is to promote a collegial and supportive learning environment that is based on high expectations for students and staff.  In addition, the Upper School Principal ensures that there is a “triangle of support that includes the teacher, parents/ guardians, and the student in a unified approach to foster each student’s growth.�

 

General Responsibilities

  Assists in the review and revision, as well as the implementation and communication of, the South Shore Charter mission, philosophy and objectives to the staff, students, parents, and community. Promotes a collegial and supportive learning environment based on high expectations for students and staff. Fosters a school community where all voices are acknowledged and parents, students, and faculty and staff feel a part of the school Maintains an “open door� policy and is highly visible in the school. Assumes responsibility for the Upper School’s educational program and the implementation of the School Improvement Plan for grades 7-12. Maintains high standards of student conduct and enforces discipline as necessary. In conjunction with the Lower School principal, assumes responsibility for the safety and administration of the school facility. Convenes the School Council and Education Committee, sets the agenda and schedules meetings pertaining to grades 7-12. Oversees the development of all Upper School programs in collaboration with the Leadership team. Maintains and expands effective communication with parents and works with the school community to support the involvement of families in the educational progress of their students. Serves as ambassador for the Upper School by attending Upper School, Parents Association and Board of Trustee’s meetings and special events. In conjunction with the Leadership Team, engages in an ongoing study of the school organization and management to maximize the learning experience of all students. In conjunction with the Executive Director and the Business Manager, develops long-range plans for the Upper School.

 

Specific Responsibilities

  Recruits, hires and oversees the orientation of new upper school faculty in collaboration with the appropriate Level Coordinators, Coordinates the Upper School new teacher mentoring/induction program. Supervises teachers by giving feedback, encouragement and correction so that they develop their professional voice and become increasingly reflective in their practice. Evaluates Upper School faculty and Level Coordinators and jointly evaluates the Curriculum Coordinators in concert with the Lower School Principal. After consultation, makes the final decision regarding the continuation of service status for Upper School faculty and paraprofessionals. Coordinates an annual curriculum review as directed by the Executive Director. Presides at meetings of the faculty, Level Coordinators, Education Committee, and School Council for the Upper School.  Assumes responsibility for final decisions in serious discipline matters. Oversees the Instructional Technology Department and provides supervision of the IT Director. Oversees the admissions process for the Upper School. Supervises and evaluates the work of the Administrative Assistant to the Upper School Principal. Represents the school at meetings of academic administrators, including local, regional, and college groups as appropriate. Develops the master schedule in conjunction with the Level Coordinators and schedules staff who work at both the K – 6 and 7 – 12 levels in consultation with the Lower School Principal and the Learning Services Director. Develops the curriculum and curriculum maps in collaboration with the Level and Curriculum Coordinators and in conjunction with the K-6 Principal to ensure both horizontal and vertical articulation. Confers with the Level Coordinators and Curriculum Coordinators on textbook selections. Coordinates level/departmental recommendations for changes in syllabi, facilitates changes where feasible, and keeps copies of all syllabi on file. Interprets, enforces and develops regulations that are in agreement with Board of Trustees’ policies, the school handbook and state and federal law. Ensures compliance with all NCLB, Federal Department of Education and Mass DOE laws and regulations. Oversees Upper School internal assessments, testing programs, MCAS, and grade reports. Ensures the ongoing professional development of Upper School faculty and staff in response to state regulations for highly qualified teachers, curriculum development, and works steadily to improve educational quality. Plans with the Lower School Principal and Learning Services Director in-service professional development opportunities for faculty and staff. Collaborates with the Executive Director and Business Manager on the overall annual budget. Performs such tasks as may be directed by the Executive Director to ensure a positive learning environment for all students and the smooth operation of the school.