Middle School Principal (Grades 8th and 9th) - ...

The Ankeny Community School District (CSD) is renowned for its excellence across academics, athletics, the arts, and various activities. Situated in central Iowa, just 6 miles from Des Moines, Ankeny CSD caters to over 12,800 students from preschool through 12th grade, making it the 7th largest district in the state. With a strong reputation for its commitment to student success and a competitive salary and benefits package, Ankeny CSD is a standout choice for both educators and families seeking a high-quality educational environment. JDE: 2.12Secondary PrincipalPosition Summary Secondary principals provide a clear vision for learning that ensures all students develop the foundational academic, social, and emotional skills needed for long-term success. They create a safe, inclusive, and nurturing school environment, foster strong relationships with students, families, staff, and the community, and act in service to the school's mission and values. As instructional leaders, elementary principals promote high-quality teaching and learning, support the professional growth and leadership capacity of staff, and use data to guide continuous improvement in student achievement. They manage school operations effectively, model a culture of collaboration and respect, and ensure that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential. Job Title: Secondary Principal Salary Grade: High School Principal: Grade 19 Middle School Principal: Grade 18 Benefit Summary: A Contract: 12-mo Administrative (279) Contract Reports To: Superintendent and Executive Cabinet Wage/Hour Status: Exempt QualificationsExperience: Minimum of five (5) years of successful teaching experience, preferably at the secondary level. Experience serving as a secondary school principal or assistant principal, preferred. Education: Master's degree in Education, Education Administration or related field. Iowa Department of Education Professional Administrative license and Evaluator Approval license Required Skills: Exceptional interpersonal and relationship-building skills with students, staff, families, and the broader community. Highly effective oral and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate vision, expectations, and decisions clearly and professionally. Strong problem-solving, conflict-resolution, and decision-making abilities to address complex, sensitive, or high-stakes situations with professionalism and integrity. Demonstrated ability to lead collaboratively with staff, empowering teams and guiding the implementation of school-wide initiatives. Advanced organizational and operational leadership skills, with the capacity to manage multiple priorities and ensure the smooth functioning of the school. Adaptability, resilience, and the ability to remain composed while leading through change, crisis, or competing demands. Deep commitment to creating and sustaining a positive, inclusive, and supportive school culture where all learners thrive. Proven ability to inspire, motivate, coach, and hold staff accountable to strengthen instructional practice and achieve school goals. Strong skills in active listening, empathy, and responsiveness to the needs of students, staff, families, and the community. Essential Functions Mission, Vision, and Core Values Lead and implement a clear vision for student learning aligned to the District's mission and Strategic Plan. Use data to inform decisions, monitor progress, and implement school improvement initiatives. Ensure all stakeholders can articulate a shared vision and understand the school's goals. Ethical Leadership and School Culture Model and promote high ethical standards, integrity, and professionalism among staff and students. Foster a safe, respectful, and welcoming school environment. Address unethical or unprofessional behavior constructively and maintain accountability. Cultivate a positive school culture that promotes student well-being, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Instructional Leadership Provide leadership for curriculum, instruction, and assessment, ensuring alignment with best practices and district goals. Analyze and use student achievement data to guide decisions and instructional improvements. Monitor teaching and learning to ensure high-quality instruction across the school. Oversee teacher supervision, evaluations, and professional development aligned with school improvement goals. Implement school improvement plans and evaluate their effectiveness in raising student outcomes. Personnel Leadership and Professional Capacity Recruit, hire, assign, supervise, and develop staff to meet instructional and operational goals. Build leadership capacity among staff and distribute responsibilities to empower teacher leaders. Provide coaching, feedback, and professional growth opportunities for all staff. Foster a collaborative professional culture focused on data-informed practice and continuous improvement. Student Support and School Environment Ensure each student is known, valued, and supported academically, socially, and emotionally. Oversee the implementation of behavior plans, special education, English Learner programs, 504 plans, and other essential supports. Maintain consistent supervision of students throughout the school day, including transitions and extracurricular activities. Identify and address barriers to student success, including disproportionalities or inequities. Family and Community Engagement Build strong partnerships with families, community organizations, and stakeholders to support student learning and well-being. Mobilize community resources to enhance school programs and initiatives. Communicate effectively with families regarding student progress, school policies, and programs. Operations and Management Manage school resources, including budgets, facilities, technology, and staffing, to support a high-performing learning environment. Ensure compliance with district policies, state and federal regulations, and safety requirements. Coordinate staffing coverage, school schedules, and operational logistics to maintain smooth daily operations. Protect instructional time while ensuring health, safety, and a positive school environment. Other Functions Participate in staff development training programs, faculty meetings, and special events as assigned. Provide excellent customer service and assistance to all employees, fostering a welcoming and approachable atmosphere. Uphold integrity and maintain confidentiality at all times. Demonstrate initiative and the ability to work without close supervision. Collaborate effectively with all school personnel, maintaining positive and productive communication. Adhere to safety protocols and policies established by the Ankeny Community School District to ensure the safety of oneself and others. Support District goals and objectives while adhering to all District policies, contributing to the overall success of the school community. Demonstrate regular and dependable attendance to ensure smooth District operations. Occasional evening or weekend work may be required to support district events or urgent situations. Perform additional duties as assigned. Working Environment Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors: The usual and customary methods of performing the position functions require the following physical demands: lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, climbing, reaching, driving, standing and walking. Working conditions may include extreme temperatures and humidity. Hazards may include exposure to communicable diseases. This position requires one to maintain emotional control under stress. Terms of Employment Work year established by the District; Salary according to schedule adopted annually. Clearances Background Clearance Evaluation: Job performance will be evaluated annually, as per district policies and procedures The foregoing statements describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required. Reviewed by: Justin Mohr Date: December 11th, 2025 The Ankeny Community School District is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer.

Created: 2026-03-10