Job Description

Derby Public Schools is seeking a dynamic, forward-thinking, and highly effective instructional leader to serve as the next Principal of Derby North Middle School.

We are looking for a strong, progressive instructional leader with a proven track record of fostering academic excellence, building high-performing collaborative teams, and establishing a positive school culture where students and staff thrive.

The ideal candidate will be a visible, student-centered leader who leads with purpose, builds meaningful relationships, and inspires others to achieve at high levels. This individual will have demonstrated success in strengthening instructional practices, utilizing data to drive continuous improvement, and creating a culture of shared leadership, accountability, and high expectations.

We are seeking a leader who:

• Champions Instructional Excellence: Demonstrates a strong understanding of effective instructional practices, curriculum, assessment, Professional Learning Communities and the importance of continuous improvement in student achievement.
• Builds a Strong, Positive Culture: Has proven success in establishing a collaborative, supportive, and student-centered environment where relationships, trust, and high expectations are foundational.
• Develops and Empowers Others: Recognizes the strengths of staff, builds leadership capacity, and fosters high-performing teams committed to a shared vision of student success.
• Leads with Vision and Innovation: Is forward-thinking, solution-oriented, and willing to challenge traditional practices while embracing opportunities to strengthen teaching and learning.
• Uses Data to Drive Results: Demonstrates the ability to analyze student achievement data, identify areas for growth, and work collaboratively with staff to implement meaningful, measurable improvements.
• Values Relationships and Communication: Builds strong partnerships with students, staff, families, and the community through visibility, authentic engagement, and transparent communication.
• Leads with Integrity and Accountability: Models professionalism, makes student-centered decisions, and maintains high expectations while supporting others in achieving success.

Interested candidates should submit their applications by midnight on January 18, 2027. Interviews will be held during the first part of February.

Salary: $125,000-$140,000; based on experience

Fringe Benefits: $840 Communication & $300 Travel Stipends

This position is on a 218 day calendar. Projected start/end dates for 2027-28 are July 13, 2026 - June 7, 2027.

All Job Descriptions are posted on our Job Description. JD #122

See the 2027 Benefit Guide for more information on health insurance, supplemental insurances, and other benefits our teachers are eligible for.

Middle School Principal

Job Description #122

Purpose: The Middle School Principal provides professional leadership in organizing, administering, supervising and evaluating a creative school program. To accomplish these tasks, the Middle School Principal works closely with the community, staff and administration of Derby Public Schools.

Responsible to: Superintendent

Salary: Annual Contract

Qualifications:

1. Masters degree from an accredited college/university.
2. Current Kansas State Building Administrator, District School Administrator or Building Leadership license on file in the Central Office.
3. Desire to continue career improvement.

Essential Functions:

1. Knowledge, Skill and Abilities

a. Provide professional leadership in organizing, administering, supervising and evaluating a creative school program.

b. Establish an optimal learning environment within the school.

c. Ensure that all school programs and activities conform to district guidelines.

d. Communicate effectively with all members of the school district and community.

e. Work effectively with community organizations.

f. React to change productively and handle other tasks as assigned.

g. Responsible for building level special education administration.

h. Support the value of an education.

i. Support the philosophy and mission of Derby Public Schools.

j. Comply with all district policies, rules and regulations.

1. Physical Requirements/Environmental Conditions:

a. Requires prolonged sitting or standing.

b. Occasionally requires physical exertion to manually move, lift, carry, pull or push heavy objects or materials.

c. Occasionally requires stooping, bending and reaching.

d. Requires the ability to occasionally travel.

e. Must be able to work indoors and outdoors year-round.

f. Must be able to work in noisy and crowded environments.

g. Requires regular attendance and/or physical presence at the job.

General Responsibilities:

1. Develop a program for the evaluation and improvement of instruction to ensure maximum educational benefits for students.
2. Develop a functioning education philosophy consistent with the values of the community, teachers, school administration and Board of Education.
3. Develop a comprehensive curriculum and program of services in cooperation with teachers and central office staff.
4. Develop an atmosphere of respect, interest and enthusiasm within the school.
5. Communicate openly and effectively with students, community, staff and administration.
6. Supervise and provide for the general welfare of students during the school day, on school trips and during school activities.
7. Maintain effective programs to strengthen and monitor pupil discipline, attendance and individual progress.
8. Select and assign certified and classified personnel.
9. Delegate duties for effective staff utilization but assume final responsibility for the overall school program.
10. Encourage the professional growth of teachers by advanced training, experimentation and evaluation.
11. Administer district policies in the operation of the school.
12. Administer the school budget.
13. Supervise the maintenance of school records and file necessary reports.
14. Comply with legal and regulatory requirements of the various governmental agencies.
15. Plan and organize the school day and year to provide for efficient operation of the school.
16. Supervise the maintenance of a safe, clean, attractive and well-kept buildings and grounds.
17. Make effective use of consultants and specialists in program and staff development.
18. Work cooperatively with peers in sharing ideas, techniques and procedures for improvement of the learning environment.
19. Keep abreast of new information, innovative ideas and techniques.
20. Adhere to all district health and safety policies.
21. Other duties as assigned by the superintendent or other administrative staff.