Union County Educational Services Commission

Westfield, NJ

School Principal

Westlake School

School Year 2026-2027

Union County Educational Services Commission is a public school district in Westfield, NJ that was established to provide innovative and cost-effective programs for students enrolled in the 21 member school districts in Union County. The Commission is currently seeking a candidate to fill a Principal anticipated vacancy at Westlkae School, a program for middle and high school students with cognitive impairments, physical and multiple disabilities, and autism spectrum disorders.  

Position Overview: 

The Principal provides overall leadership, management, and direction for Westlake School. Reporting to the Superintendent , the Principal is responsible for the academic, behavioral, and social-emotional programming of the school, as well as staff supervision, compliance, and family partnerships. 

* Provide visionary instructional leadership, ensuring all programming reflects evidence-based practices, including Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), for students with autism and multiple disabilities.

* Supervise, evaluate, and mentor certified teachers, teacher assistants, and related services providers to foster professional growth and instructional excellence.

* Lead and participate in IEP team meetings, multidisciplinary evaluation, and eligibility determinations in collaboration with families and staff.

* Direct the development, implementation, and fidelity monitoring of behavior intervention plans and school-wide positive behavior support systems,

* Foster a welcoming, inclusive school culture that prioritizes student dignity, safety, and belonging.

 * Manage school operations, including scheduling, staffing, budget oversight, and facilities coordination.

* Establish and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with families, community stakeholders, and outside service providers.

* Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local special education laws, regulations, and reporting requirements.

* Collect, analyze, and use student outcome data to drive instructional decisions and school improvement planning. 

* Lead professional development initiatives focused on ABA methodology, autism best practices, and differentiated instruction.

* Support crisis prevention and intervention protocols, ensuring staff are trained and systems are in place. 

Qualifications:

* Master's Degree in Educational Leadership or related discipline issued by an accredited college or university, Doctorate preferred.

* Valid Principal Certification issued by the New Jersey Department of Education.

* BCBA preferred.

* Minimum of 5 years of experience in special education, with direct experience serving students with autism spectrum disotder adm/or multiple disabilities.

* Demonstrated knowledge of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) principles and their application in educational settings.

* Experience with IEP development, facilitation, and compliance in accordance with IDEA.

* Proven ability to lead, coach, and evaluate instructional and support staff.

* Strong written and oral communication skills. 

* Experience as a building-level administrator in a special education school or program.

* Familiarity with augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems and assistive technology. 

* Training in Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) at the school-wide level.

* Experience with staff training and development in ABA methodology.

* Knowledge of New Jersey education law and Chapter 14 regulations. 

Description: 

* Available September 1, 2026

* Full-Time, 12-month Position

* Comprehensive Family Medical, Dental, and Prescription Benefits.

* New Jersey State Pension Enrollment (TPAF)

* Professional Development & Tuition Reimbursement Programs.

* Salary: $130,492 - $176,997 (based on experience)

Qualified candidates are invited to complete the online application to be considered for an interview.

Thank you for your interest!