PreK–8 Principal – St. Johnsbury School District (Vermont)
Location: St. Johnsbury, Vermont
Position Type: Full-Time, Full Year
Salary: Competitive, based on experience and qualifications
Join a School and Community That Believes in Every Student
The St. Johnsbury School District is seeking a dynamic, student-centered leader to serve as Principal of our PreK–8 school of approximately 550 students. This is an exciting opportunity to lead a vibrant learning community grounded in strong relationships, high expectations, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
Located in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont, St. Johnsbury offers the best of small-town living with access to exceptional educational and cultural opportunities. Our students benefit from a rich PreK–8 experience and a unique school choice system, with many continuing on to St. Johnsbury Academy and other high-quality secondary options. Our work is focused on preparing students with the skills, confidence, and curiosity to thrive in whatever path they choose.
About Our School
St. Johnsbury School is a single-site PreK–8 district that:
- Emphasizes high-quality instruction through the Five Dimensions of Teaching and Learning (CEL 5D)
- Implements a strong Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) for academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs
- Prioritizes student belonging, engagement, and voice
- Partners with local organizations to provide enriched learning opportunities in the arts, sciences, and community-based experiences
- Is committed to equity, inclusion, and ensuring success for every student
Position Overview
The Principal serves as the instructional and executive leader of the school, responsible for ensuring a safe, inclusive, and high-performing learning environment. This role leads all aspects of school operations, instructional systems, and staff development, while building strong partnerships with families and the broader community.
Key Responsibilities
Instructional Leadership
- Lead and support high-quality teaching aligned to the CEL 5D framework
- Ensure consistent implementation of MTSS and data-driven instruction
- Oversee curriculum, assessment, and professional learning systems
Staff Leadership & Development
- Supervise and evaluate instructional staff and school leaders
- Build leadership capacity across Assistant Principals and teacher leaders
- Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement
School Culture & Climate
- Promote a safe, inclusive, and engaging school environment
- Implement systems that support student behavior, belonging, and well-being
- Build strong, trusting relationships with students and staff
Family & Community Engagement
- Serve as a visible and accessible leader for families
- Strengthen partnerships with community organizations
- Communicate clearly and consistently with all stakeholders
Operations & Systems
- Oversee daily operations, safety, and compliance
- Align resources, staffing, and scheduling to student needs
- Contribute to district-wide planning and leadership
Who We Are Looking For
We are seeking a leader who:
- Believes deeply in the potential of every student
- Is a strong instructional leader, not just a manager
- Can build trust while holding high expectations
- Understands how to align systems to improve outcomes
- Is committed to equity, inclusion, and student-centered decision-making
- Brings energy, visibility, and a sense of purpose to the role
Qualifications
- Vermont Principal License (or eligibility)
- Master’s degree in Educational Leadership or related field
- Minimum of 5 years of successful teaching experience
- Demonstrated leadership experience in a school setting
- Knowledge of MTSS, instructional leadership, and staff development
Why St. Johnsbury?
- A close-knit, supportive community that values education
- Access to outdoor recreation, arts, and cultural institutions
- Strong partnerships with organizations like the Fairbanks Museum and Catamount Arts
- A school system that is innovative, student-centered, and continuously improving