Job Description

Job DetailsJob Location: Memphis, TN 38132Job Title: Elementary School Principal
Location: Southern Avenue Charter School
Position Type: Full-Time
Reports To: Executive Director / Head of School
Position Overview
Southern Avenue Charter School is seeking a dynamic and visionary Elementary School Principal to provide strong instructional leadership and ensure a high-quality educational experience for all students. The Principal will oversee the academic program, school culture, staff development, and daily operations of the elementary school while fostering a safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environment.
The ideal candidate is a collaborative leader who is committed to student achievement, teacher development, and building strong relationships with students, staff, families, and the community.
Key Responsibilities
Instructional Leadership
Lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of the elementary instructional program to ensure alignment with state academic standards, charter goals, and the school’s mission.
Conduct regular classroom observations, walkthroughs, and formal evaluations to monitor instructional quality and provide actionable feedback to teachers.
Coach and mentor teachers to improve instructional practices, classroom management, and student engagement.
Facilitate the use of data-driven instruction by analyzing assessment results, identifying achievement gaps, and developing targeted intervention strategies.
Support the development and implementation of curriculum pacing guides, lesson planning expectations, and instructional frameworks.
Ensure effective integration of technology and innovative instructional practices in the classroom.
Lead grade-level meetings and professional learning communities (PLCs) focused on instructional improvement and student achievement.
School Culture & Climate
Establish and maintain a safe, respectful, and inclusive school environment that supports academic excellence and positive student behavior.
Develop and implement school-wide behavior management systems and discipline policies that promote accountability and student growth.
Address student discipline concerns, investigate incidents, and implement appropriate interventions in accordance with school policy.
Promote social-emotional learning (SEL) and student wellness programs that support the overall development of students.
Foster a school culture that values diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect among students and staff.
Serve as a visible and accessible leader who builds positive relationships with students and staff.
Staff Supervision & Professional Development
Recruit, interview, and recommend qualified candidates for open teaching and staff positions in collaboration with the Human Resources Department.
Supervise and evaluate teachers and support staff in accordance with the school’s performance evaluation system.
Provide ongoing coaching, mentoring, and professional support to help staff grow in their roles.
Identify professional development needs and coordinate training sessions, workshops, and instructional coaching opportunities.
Promote collaboration among teachers through grade-level meetings, team planning sessions, and cross-departmental initiatives.
Address staff performance concerns and implement improvement plans when necessary.
School Operations & Administration
Oversee the daily operations of the elementary school, including scheduling, supervision, and implementation of school procedures.
Ensure that school policies, procedures, and expectations are clearly communicated and consistently enforced.
Coordinate student arrival, dismissal, and supervision schedules to maintain a safe school environment.
Manage school resources, instructional materials, and classroom supplies to ensure effective learning environments.
Work closely with administrative teams to ensure compliance with charter requirements, state regulations, and school policies.
Assist with budget planning and allocation of resources related to the elementary program.
Oversee student enrollment processes and maintain accurate student records.
Family & Community Engagement
Build and maintain strong relationships with parents, guardians, and families to support student success.
Communicate regularly with families regarding academic expectations, school programs, student progress, and school events.
Address parent concerns or conflicts in a professional and timely manner.
Encourage family engagement through school activities, meetings, and volunteer opportunities.
Represent the school in community meetings, partnerships, and outreach initiatives.
Promote the school’s mission, values, and programs within the broader community.
Compliance & Accountability
Ensure compliance with state education laws, charter regulations, and school policies.
Monitor student attendance, academic performance, and behavioral data to ensure accountability and improvement.
Oversee standardized testing administration and ensure proper testing procedures are followed.
Maintain accurate reporting and documentation required by regulatory agencies and school leadership.
Collaborate with leadership teams to set and achieve school-wide academic and operational goals.
QualificationsQualifications
Required
Master’s degree in Educational Leadership, Education Administration, or a related field.
Valid state administrator/principal licensure or ability to obtain licensure.
Minimum of 3–5 years of teaching experience, preferably at the elementary level.
Demonstrated leadership experience in a school setting.
Strong knowledge of elementary curriculum, instruction, and assessment.
Preferred
Experience working in a charter school environment.
Proven track record of improving student academic outcomes.
Experience with teacher coaching and instructional leadership.
Skills & Competencies
Strong leadership and team-building abilities
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Strategic planning and organizational management
Data-driven decision-making
Conflict resolution and problem-solving skills
Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in education
Physical Requirements
Ability to move throughout the school campus and visit classrooms regularly.
Ability to stand, walk, and supervise students for extended periods of time.
Ability to attend school events, meetings, and activities as required.
Work Environment
This position operates in a fast-paced elementary school environment and may occasionally require evening or weekend attendance for school events, meetings, or community engagement activities.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Southern Avenue Charter School is committed to creating an inclusive environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.