Licensed District and School Administrators



Start Date

Open Date 07/21/2026

Closing Date 07/28/2026

General Definition of Work

The principal, under minimal supervision, performs senior level work with extensive decision-making discretion as the lead administrator of the school, providing leadership and direction to ensure high standards of academic achievement, student development, and staff performance. The role serves as an instructional leader who guides and inspires students, teachers, other staff members, parents and the community. Position is responsible for managing school operations, fostering a positive learning environment, and ensuring compliance with district policies and state regulations. Employee performs advanced and supervisory work to carry out Board of Education policies and procedures under the direction of the performance area assistant superintendent.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Salary/Status

CMS Principal Pay Plan/Full-time, 12 months

Reports To

Performance Area Assistant Superintendent

Place of Work

The normal place of work is on the premises used by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. Charlotte- Mecklenburg Schools reserves the right to require you to work at such other place(s) as it may reasonably require from time to time.

Essential Functions

• Adhere to all state, federal, and local laws, policies, and procedures
• Adhere to the North Carolina Professional School Executive Standards
• Lead, manage, supervise, and evaluate assigned programs/staff in the district
• Develop and enforce expectations, structures, rules, and procedures for students and staff
• Develop and implement the school's mission, vision, and strategic goals
• Supervise curriculum implementation and instructional practices
• Promote a culture of academic excellence and continuous improvement; develop and implement a school improvement plan
• Oversee discipline policies and student services programs implemented in the school
• Develop and monitor the school budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility and compliance with established financial policy and procedures
• Strategically utilize allotted positions/resources; plan and identify resources required to meet school needs
• Monitor the physical condition and cleanliness of the school building; escalate items that need addressed appropriately
• Implement and assess school safety practices and procedures including but not limited to fire drills, lock down drills, etc.
• Build strong relationships with parents, community members, and other stakeholders
• Communicate effectively about school programs, achievements, and needs
• Develop and deliver presentations, reports, memos, communications, and other correspondence
• Facilitate staff meetings and attend other related meetings as needed/required
• Coordinate and/or conduct professional development, coaching, and mentoring opportunities for teachers, administrators, and support staff
• Oversee the completion and accuracy of school-based records and reports
• Complete local, state, or federal surveys and reports accurately and promptly
• Participate in professional development workshops and leadership training
• Create an inclusive environment with positive communication/public relations
• Perform related work as assigned or required

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

• Comprehensive in-depth knowledge and understanding of the principles, practices, and procedures of public school system policies
• Comprehensive knowledge of federal, state, and local regulatory requirements applicable to school systems
• Thorough knowledge of county and school board policies, procedures, and standards
• Ability to utilize student achievement and other data to inform instructional decisions
• Ability to maintain professional and emotional control under stress
• Ability to reflect appropriate response to situations, while maintaining a professional and personal demeanor
• Ability to learn and use specialized tools, equipment, or software related to business needs
• Ability to develop and monitor a budget
• Ability to direct and evaluate the work of others
• Ability to implement local, state, and federal rules, guidelines, and procedures into daily business operations
• Ability to communicate effectively
• Ability to reason, make judgments, and maintain effective working relationships
• Ability to employ positive communication skills in all settings/mediums
• Ability to problem-solve utilizing sound judgment
• Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding school system business
• Ability to develop related charts, graphs, reports, and records pertaining to school planning and strategy
• Ability to take initiative, work independently, and exercise sound judgement
• Ability to conceptualize, initiate, monitor, and evaluate new and/or current programs
• Demonstrated ability to perform detailed work, planning, risk assessments, and associated risk mitigation actions
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a deadline-driven, rapidly changing team environment

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in education or a closely related field required
• Master's degree in a relevant discipline that leads to K-12 School Administrator-Principal licensure in NC required
• Teacher certification and current principal licensure in NC (or another state, with ability to obtain NC licensure) required
• Minimum three (3) years of experience in teaching required. Five (5) years of experience in teaching preferred

# of Jobs 1.00

Term 12 Month

Additional Job Information

Special RequirementsCMS maintains a pool of potential candidates who have demonstrated their qualifications for principal roles through a rigorous talent pool selection process. In order to be considered for a principal position, applicants must successfully complete requirements associated with the Principal Talent Pool.

CMS Fast Track Principal Talent Pool: Interested applicants who are current K-12 principals with at least 1 year of principal experience, are eligible for the "Fast Track Principal Talent Pool Process". Please upload the required documents located within the application to be considered for the Fast Track Principal Talent Pool (Letter of Interest, Updated Resume, References from your current and previous supervisor, proof of licensure and summative evaluation data).

CMS Principal Talent Pool: Interested applicants in applying to the Principal Talent Pool. Click here to begin the CMS Principal Talent Pool application process. Instructions to apply for the CMS Principal Talent Pool can be found here.

**Information for these processes can be found on our CMS School Executive Website.

Current CMS Principal Talent Pool Members: Please submit your interest on the vacancy announcement for this position through the CMS Principal Talent Pool email notification.

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