Principal-Elementary 3-5

This posting is for a 1.0 FTE Elementary Principal assigned to Orin C. Smith Elementary for the 2025-26 school year. The position begins July 1, 2025.  The position is open until filled. For best consideration, apply by March 10, 2025.

A completed application packet should include the following:

• Resume
• Cover letter including personal qualifications, experiences and reasons for interest in the position
• Three (3) Reference Letters
• Copy of Valid Washington State Administrator Certificate
• Copies of academic transcripts

Position Summary:

Chehalis School District is seeking a highly motivated and student-centered leader to serve as grades 3-5 Elementary Principal at Orin C. Smith Elementary. The ideal candidate will foster a collaborative and inclusive school culture, ensuring academic success, student well-being, and staff development. This role requires a strong instructional leader committed to equity, school improvement, and community engagement.

Qualifications:

• Master's Degree in educational administration or related field required
• Valid Washington State principal certification (or ability to acquire certification by July 1, 2025)
• Minimum five years prior successful teaching experience
• Demonstrated leadership and management qualities
• Experience communicating information and directing presentations to various audiences and on various platforms
• Experience developing positive and favorable relationships with students, staff, parents, and community members
• Proficient with technology related to the position
• Evidence of experience and training needed to perform the functions described in the elementary principal's job description
• In District residency preferred, not required
• Fingerprint/Background clearance
• Knowledge of Washington state school reform initiatives and mandates 

Key Responsibilities:

• Uphold district policies, state laws, contracts, and budget accountability to ensure smooth school operations.
• Oversee staff recruitment, assignment, supervision, and evaluation, fostering professional growth.
• Promote a safe, inclusive, and student-centered learning environment.
• Utilize data-driven decision-making to improve instruction and student outcomes.
• Align school efforts with curriculum development, instructional best practices, and school reform initiatives.
• Cultivate strong partnerships with families, staff, and the broader community.
• Support student programs tailored to diverse needs and interests.
• Encourage public use of school facilities for educational and community activities.
• Actively participate in district leadership and contribute to strategic planning initiatives.

Preferred Experience:

• Prior experience as an administrator or teacher at the elementary level.
• Supervising and evaluating certificated and classified staff.
• Implementing student discipline and attendance programs.
• Leading curriculum and program development, particularly in math and Social Emotional Learning (SEL).
• Encouraging excellence in both students and staff through mentoring and recognition.
• Building strong family and community engagement.
• Familiarity with tiered intervention programs, data driven instruction, and technology integration in education.

Why Join Chehalis School District?

Chehalis School District serves approx. 3,000 students across five schools and is deeply committed to academic success and college/career readiness. Our community provides strong support for education, and our schools emphasize high expectations, student-centered learning, and staff collaboration. Located midway between Seattle and Portland, Chehalis offers access to outdoor recreation in a beautiful Pacific Northwest setting and a welcoming small-town atmosphere.

Contract:
Based on 260 days, to include 219 work days per year, 13 holidays, and 28 vacation days, with a salary range of $149,362 to $165,958  (2024-25 salary listed; 2025-26 still to be determined). Terms and conditions are established by the district administrators' agreement.

Benefits:
The District complies with State Law regarding SEBB (School Employee Benefits Board) and DRS (Washington State Department of Retirement Systems) eligibility and benefit. To be eligible, a person must work 630 hours in the school year. If eligible, SEBB benefits include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, long-term disability, AD&D Insurance, Flexible Spending Arrangements (FSA), and Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP). Retirement benefits, if eligible, may include membership in TRS retirement plans in addition to voluntary Deferred Compensation Program and 403(b) Annuity enrollments. Paid time off and VEBA are also benefits outlined in the Administrator Employment Agreement.