Academy for Young Minds (AYM), powered by Gersh, is seeking an experienced
School Principalto 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.
BenefitsGersh 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
The pay range for this role is:
100,000 - 150,000 USD per year (Queens LIC)
