Start Date: July 1, 2023

Location: Brooklyn, NY; New Haven, CT; Hartford, CT; Bridgeport, CT; Providence, RI

About Achievement First

Achievement First (AF) is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization that currently supports 41 public charter schools in New York, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. AF has consistently been rated one of the top charter school networks in the country, and we are still learning and growing. The majority of our students are Black and Latinx children from low-income families who will be the first in their families to graduate from college. We currently employ more than 2,000 staff — 47% of whom identify as Black, Latino/x, or Multi-racial — who collectively educate nearly 15,000 students in Brooklyn, NY; Providence, RI; and New Haven, Bridgeport, and Hartford CT.

The mission of Achievement First is to deliver on the promise of equal educational opportunity for all of America's children. We know that every child—regardless of race, zip code, or economic status—deserves access to great schools. At AF, our students realize their potential and develop the skills they need to graduate from college, succeed in a competitive world, and serve as the next generation of leaders in our community. At the core of our approach is the shared journey by our students and staff to fulfill our incredible potential. For more information about the Achievement First mission, model, our schools and team, please visit our website at www.achievementfirst.org.

The Role of a Principal at Achievement First

At Achievement First, we say the job of the principal is to create the conditions for everyone to thrive in your school building. As a principal, you will have the opportunity to lead a passionate leadership team, dedicated teachers and brilliant students. Here, you will be the driver of high-quality coaching instruction that enables deans and teachers to develop strong classroom cultures,deliver strong content and instill a lifelong love of learning in our scholars. You will work with your leadership team to help teachers to be your students' champion because you believe all students are capable of greatness and achievement far beyond what society has been conditioned to accept. You will demand excellence for yourself, your staff and your students, and accept nothing less than students' best and most thoughtful work.

At Achievement First, you will grow as a passionate and constant leader who thrives on feedback, enjoys regular one-on-one coaching with your Regional Superintendent, and nurtures a voracious appetite for professional development and consistent improvement. You will cultivate school wide classroom cultures built on strong structures, communication and lasting relationships. Every day, you will contribute to the education of children who will go to college and return to our communities as the next generation of game-changers.

Responsibilities of the Principal will include but are not limited to:

• Exemplary Student Achievement
  • Set a clear and inspiring vision for the school's core instructional program that unlocks our students' intellect and is based on high expectations
  • Coach and develop deans and teachers to realize your vision for instruction, analyzing data and adjusting course as necessary to ensure every student achieves academic excellence and that the school meets the ambitious performance goals set by Achievement First
• Positive School Environment
  • Set a clear and inspiring vision for a positive classroom environment, spiking in both high expectations and a deep sense of belief and belonging
  • Coach and develop deans and teachers to realize your vision for classroom environment, analyzing data and adjust course as necessary to ensure every student feels known, loved and safe.
• Vision, Inspiration and Community Engagement
  • Model the Achievement First values with all stakeholders
  • Create a welcoming environment for all students, families and staff members, regardless of race, ethnicity or socio-economic background
  • Build a strong and high functioning team of adults through hiring, retention strategy and performance management
  • Ensure that the school runs smoothly, efficiently, and on budget

Skills and Characteristics

• A commitment to Achievement First's mission, deep love of content, and an unwavering belief that all students can and will succeed.
• Track record of exemplary instructional and classroom management skills, including meeting extremely high standards for student achievement.
• High level of personal organization and planning.
• Excellent communication skills with diverse constituents (teachers, parents, children, board members)
• Proven ability to proactively lead by example, effectively manage adults, and seek out feedback
• Team player: maturity, humility, strong work ethic, follow-through, sense of humor, willingness to respond positively to feedback and a "roll-up-my-sleeves" attitude.
• Mastery of and enthusiasm for subject matter.

Educational Background and Work Experience:

• A bachelor's degree; master's degree preferred.
• Successful formal school leadership experience, leading and managing adults
• At least 3 years of teaching experience with a record of high student achievement.
• If not currently certified, obtaining necessary state certification in specific subject and grade level is required within the first two months of employment.

To Apply

Apply by completing our online application form.

Achievement First requires vaccination against COVID-19 for all employees. Reasonable accommodations based on a qualifying disability or sincerely held religious belief are being considered in accordance with applicable law. Click here to read our full policy.