Job Description

For over 30 years, Gersh Autism has empowered students on the autism spectrum to reach their full potential. Serving individuals aged 5-21 across the U.S. and Puerto Rico, our network of K-12 schools provides personalized education tailored to each student’s unique learning style. We offer comprehensive therapeutic services—speech, physical, occupational therapy, and more—along with vocational training for older students. Our dedicated team collaborates with families to ensure academic, social, and emotional growth, preparing students for success beyond the classroom.

At Gersh Autism, we are committed to helping individuals on the autism spectrum lead fulfilling, independent lives.

Academy for Young Minds (AYM), powered by Gersh, is seeking an experienced School Principal to join our team and work in our state-of- the-art School in Long Island City, NY. You will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our students and the school. We are looking for a candidate who believes in our core values, values collaboration, and thrives in a culture of continuous improvement. The School Principal will be responsible for driving academic excellence, fostering a safe and inclusive environment, and leading a multidisciplinary team in delivering highly individualized instruction and support services.

This is a unique opportunity for a collaborative and data-driven educational leader who is passionate about supporting students with varying abilities and committed to continuous improvement.

*Please note, this is a year-round school.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic leadership in the development and execution of school-wide goals, systems, and procedures
• Oversee instructional programs, ensuring alignment with best practices and student-centered methodologies
• Use data analysis to monitor student progress, inform decisions, and communicate outcomes to stakeholders
• Manage school operations including staffing, scheduling, and budget oversight
• Recruit, develop, and retain high-performing staff; provide ongoing coaching and performance feedback
• Foster a positive, safe, and inclusive school culture for students, staff, and families
• Ensure compliance with all applicable local, state, and federal regulations
• Oversee individualized student programming, including IEP implementation and progress monitoring
• Collaborate with families and external professionals to support student success
• Represent the organization in community partnerships, professional forums, and regulatory engagements

Requirements:

• Master’s degree or higher in Education, Educational Leadership, or related field
• Valid New York State School Building Leader (Principal) certification (or ability to obtain)
• Minimum of 3–5 years of leadership experience in an educational setting
• Minimum of 3 years experience working with students with specialized learning needs
• Strong knowledge of special education practices, compliance, and instructional strategies
• Demonstrated ability to analyze data and lead through measurable outcomes
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience leading within a specialized or therapeutic educational program
• Background in multidisciplinary or integrated student services environments
• Training in crisis prevention, de-escalation, or behavioral support frameworks
• Track record of building strong teams and improving school performance

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to keep students safe from themselves and others and, in some cases, may need to implement CPI (therapeutic holds) procedures
• Must be able to remove oneself from potentially harmful situations and, in some cases, be able to lift a child
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and move throughout the workday
• Ability to lift (at least 50–65 pounds), assist, and/or physically support students, which may include lifting or guiding students of varying sizes
• Ability to physically intervene when required to ensure safety (per CPI training)
• Ability to remove oneself and/or others from unsafe situations quickly
• Ability to maintain attention and focus in a dynamic, high-stimulation environment
• Ability to multi-task and shift priorities quickly
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and decision-making, particularly in high-pressure or safety-sensitive situations
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and maintain professional relationships
• Ability to perform duties under stress, including during behavioral escalations

Why Join Us:

• Make a meaningful impact on students' lives.
• Collaborate with a dedicated and passionate team.
• Work in an environment that values growth, innovation, and excellence.
• Competitive compensation and bonus opportunities.

Benefits

Gersh Autism offers a competitive compensation package, including comprehensive health and retirement benefits, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work environment committed to your personal and professional growth.

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (401k matching)
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
• Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
• Training & Development