The role at a glanceRole: Middle School Principal
Start date: July 2027
Location: Bronx, Upper Manhattan, or Queens
Work model: Fully on-site in New York City
Salary range: $125,000 - $180,000
Reports to: Network School Manager
We hire for this role at different points throughout the year as positions become available, and onboard on a rolling basis. If your experience aligns with what we are looking for, our team may reach out to explore a current or upcoming opportunity and whether the timing is right for both you and Zeta.
Compensation is determined according to Zeta's applicable salary scale, which factors in relevant experience and internal equity. This position is eligible to receive an annual discretionary, merit-based performance bonus.
Who you areWe are searching for a Middle School Principal with a proven track record of setting a bold vision, building a high-performing team, and driving exceptional student outcomes in a rigorous, joyful, and caring school community where every student and adult thrives.
You bring:- A Bachelor's degree
- A minimum of 2 years of experience serving as a Principal or senior school leader, with ultimate responsibility for leading and developing high-performing teams
- A minimum of 3 years of classroom teaching experience
- Deep alignment with Zeta's mission and an unwavering belief in every student's potential
- A proven track record of using data to drive strong, measurable school-wide academic outcomes, close instructional gaps, set goals, and adjust course when needed
- Deep instructional expertise and a clear vision for excellence across classrooms, grade levels, and content areas
- Exceptional people leadership, including developing strong teachers and leaders, building accountability, and addressing underperformance directly and timely
- The ability to build both a joyful and rigorous school culture that rallies staff, students, and families around an ambitious vision
- Strong, strategic judgment and the ability to navigate high-stakes challenges with clarity, composure, urgency, and follow-through
- Clear, confident communication paired with humility, self-awareness, and a hunger for feedback and continual growth
What you'll be doingIn the School Principal role, you will:
- Set and execute an ambitious school-wide vision, establishing clear priorities and uniting leaders, teachers, staff, students, and families around a shared definition of excellence.
- Build a joyful, safe, and intellectually rigorous school culture in which every student is known, supported, challenged, and inspired to grow.
- Foster authentic and trusting relationships with staff, students, and families, creating a strong foundation for collaboration, belonging, and student success.
- Define and uphold the highest standards of instructional excellence, ensuring strong content knowledge, purposeful planning, and high-quality implementation across classrooms, grade levels, and content areas.
- Own schoolwide academic outcomes through a data-driven, results-oriented approach, identifying gaps, setting goals, monitoring progress, and adjusting strategy to ensure every student meets ambitious goals.
- Lead, develop, and inspire a high-performing school leadership team that effectively coaches teachers, manages performance, and drives strong academic, cultural, and operational outcomes.
- Analyze academic, cultural, and behavioral data across the school, translating insights into strategic action plans with clear ownership, accountability, and follow-through.
- Model a culture of problem-solving, ownership, and unwavering commitment to student achievement, setting the tone for excellence across the entire school community.
- Lead the design and execution of schoolwide systems, routines, and structures that enable consistently strong execution and long-term success.
How does Zeta invest in you? We offer great benefits- Comprehensive and affordable medical, dental, and vision plans
- Flexible spending accounts for eligible medical purchases and commuter expenses
- 403(b) retirement plan; Zeta offers matching contributions toward your savings
- Competitive compensation and additional stipends are available for leaders managing testing grades
- Relocation support to help eligible candidates make the move to New York City
We provide awesome perks- Monthly stipend for wellness and lifestyle expenses - from gym memberships to salon appointments, concerts, and more
- Four live therapy sessions per month through Talkspace and a free Headspace subscription
- MacBook Air and specified monthly reimbursement for use of a mobile phone
- Fully stocked team spaces with snacks and quality coffee to keep you fueled throughout the day
- Zeta swag, team outings, and some of NYC's finest sweet treats handpicked from our CEO
- Books and resources for professional development
We care deeply about your personal and professional growth- Clear pathways to professional growth
- Consistent feedback and support from managers and teammates
- Community Circle practice to build and strengthen our sense of team
- Interactive Mindfulness and DEIJ programming
