Principal in Residence

Deadline: January 4, 2027 | District: Jalen Rose Leadership Academy | Position: Principal in Residence (Middle School), full-time

About the role

The Principal in Residence – Middle School is a transformative leader responsible for helping launch and lead JRLA’s future middle school as part of the academy’s long-term expansion vision. This founding leadership role will work closely with the Superintendent to develop the academic, cultural, operational, and community-facing systems necessary to build a high-performing middle school that prepares scholars for success at JRLA and beyond. The Principal in Residence will guide and develop a high-performing faculty, set the strategic vision for student achievement, and implement the school’s mission through effective leadership and management of all stakeholders, including faculty, staff, scholars, families, and the community. The Principal in Residence will also support family and scholar recruitment efforts to help establish a strong founding middle school community rooted in JRLA’s core values and mission.

Responsibilities

• Implement a high-quality, rigorous, learning program that promotes critical thinking, citizenship, and leadership consistent with Jalen Rose Leadership Academy’s mission and vision.
• Set ambitious school goals for student achievement and performance; hold staff members accountable for achieving results.
• Support the planning, development, and launch of JRLA’s future middle school campus, including systems, culture, staffing, and instructional programming.
• Lead family and scholar recruitment efforts to build enrollment and establish strong relationships within the Detroit community.
• Develop systems and structures that create a joyful, rigorous, and developmentally appropriate middle school experience for scholars.
• Create and lead an effective, collaborative team equally responsible for the attainment of school goals and committed to achieving excellence.
• Build high-performing relationships with all stakeholders including students, staff, faculty, parents, funders, board members, and the community.
• Foster a welcoming school climate that supports both student and staff success.
• Promote a culture of ongoing learning and continuously improving teaching practices through professional development, collaboration, modeling, and collaborative planning amongst faculty and staff.
• Lead, manage, support, and develop high-caliber leaders on campus through consistent coaching and professional development.
• Use data to inform and drive decision-making and instruction at the school.
• Manage all positions and operations at the school site, ensure fiscal health, and oversee the school facility.
• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal laws and regulations.

Requirements

• Belief that ALL children can and will succeed regardless of their zip code.
• Meet certification and continuing education requirements as described in MCL 380.1246 for administrators or chief business officials.
• Valid Michigan administrative certification OR demonstrated results as a building-level leader with willingness to obtain Michigan administrative certification within the first 18 months of employment.
• Bachelor’s degree in the subject area or related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• At least three years of experience successfully leading a school to exceptional gains and achievement.
• At least five years of classroom teaching experience with demonstrated and exceptional results.
• Instructional leadership expertise, particularly in middle school curriculum and pedagogical strategies.
• Strong classroom management skills and the ability to inspire and motivate middle school scholars and staff.
• Willingness to work outside of work hours and on weekends.
• Openness to giving and receiving frequent feedback.
• Ability to maintain emotional control under stress.
• Ability to work urgently in a fast-paced, results-oriented environment.
• Excellent communication and professional interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently.
• Strategic thinker and proactive problem-solver.
• Ability to implement effective business systems that ensure proper stewardship of school funds.

Skills

• A passion for working with scholars and families in under-served communities
• Effective verbal and written communication skills
• Team player with strong interpersonal/influence skills
• Organizational and technology skills

Benefits

Why apply:

• Competitive Salaries
• Paid Development Opportunities
• Retention Bonuses
• Monthly Mental & Physical Wellness Events & Initiatives
• JRLA fringe benefits (birthday gifts, team building events, SWAG, unique experiences)

Company Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Medical, Vision, and Dental Plans
• 5% 401(k) Company Match
• Life, AD&D, STD, and LTD Insurance (100% employer-paid)
• Voluntary Benefits Available

Core Values:

• The power of FAMILY: I succeed when we all succeed
• The power of RESPECT: I find success through empathy and integrity
• The power of EXCELLENCE: I must take ownership in my learning to succeed
• The power of DETERMINATION: I have the will to succeed