Principal

About STARS Academy

STARS Academy is a dynamic and innovative K-8 school that integrates the arts into academic learning. Our mission is to foster creativity, confidence, and academic excellence in a supportive and engaging environment. Founded on a passion for education and the arts, STARS Academy offers a unique, student-centered learning experience that values professionalism, communication, and collaboration.

We are seeking a Principal to join our leadership team, working under the Head of School to support the growth and success of our students, staff, and overall school community. The ideal candidate is an experienced, innovative, and student-focused leader who can uphold and further develop the school’s mission.

Position Overview

The Principal will oversee the daily operations of STARS Academy, ensuring a positive and productive learning environment for students and staff. They will work closely with the Head of School to implement policies, support faculty, foster student engagement, and uphold the school’s commitment to excellence in education and professionalism.

Key Responsibilities

Instructional Leadership & Student Success

• Oversee curriculum implementation, instructional best practices, and academic standards.
• Support teachers in lesson planning, professional growth, and classroom management.
• Ensure student engagement through a blend of academic rigor and creativity, aligning with STARS Academy’s emphasis on arts integration.
• Oversee student progress, assessments, and intervention plans when necessary.

Staff Development & Supervision

• Support and mentor teachers and staff to foster a positive and professional school culture.
• Implement and oversee staff policies related to professionalism, punctuality, and communication.
• Lead staff meetings and professional development sessions.
• Assist with hiring, training, and evaluating staff in collaboration with the Head of School.

Operations & School Management

• Oversee daily operations, including attendance policies, student behavior management, and extracurricular activities.
• Work with the Head of School to refine policies, including attendance, admissions, and student support services.
• Monitor and ensure compliance with WASC accreditation and other school standards.
• Support with student trial days, new student orientations, and transitions.
• Oversee the effective use of communication tools like Slack, Ring Central, and internal messaging systems.

Community & Parent Engagement

• Foster strong relationships with students, families, and staff to build a supportive school culture.
• Serve as a point of contact for parents regarding student progress, policies, and concerns.
• Support fundraising efforts, events, and initiatives.
• Communicate effectively and professionally with parents and external stakeholders.

Student Behavior & School Culture

• Enforce school policies related to attendance, punctuality, and student conduct.
• Address student conflicts and behavioral concerns with a focus on social-emotional learning (SEL).
• Promote a culture of respect, inclusivity, and personal accountability.

Qualifications & Skills

• Master’s Degree in Education, Educational Leadership, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of teaching experience, with leadership experience preferred.
• Passion for arts integration and innovative education.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with accreditation processes (WASC preferred).
• Knowledge of school operations, staff management, and student support strategies.
• Ability to foster a positive, inclusive, and professional learning environment.

Why Join STARS Academy?

• A creative and collaborative school culture that values the arts and student-centered learning.
• Supportive leadership team with opportunities for growth.
• Engaged students and dedicated staff committed to academic excellence.
• Exciting new developments, including expanded play areas and student engagement initiatives.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their resume, a cover letter outlining their leadership philosophy, and references to sdovitz@starsacademyschool.com

We look forward to welcoming a passionate and dedicated leader to the STARS Academy family!