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