Founding Principal – 2027-2028 School Year

The Academies of Math and Science

. Lead the launch of AMS Ft. Smith, establishing a high-performing public charter school from the ground up . Develop and implement the instructional and operational vision aligned with AMS's mission and academic model .

Posted 9/23/2026full-timeFort Smith • United StatesLead💰 $95,000 - $110,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates strong instructional leadership and the ability to develop and implement effective school systems and processes. Proven track record in building relationships with students, families, and community stakeholders while driving data-informed decision-making for continuous improvement.

Highest-signal resume keywords

School Leadership ExperienceInstructional LeadershipData-Driven Decision MakingTeam ManagementCommunity Engagement

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Curriculum DevelopmentOperational PlanningStudent Achievement Data AnalysisSchool Culture BuildingProfessional Development

Soft Skills

Excellent CommunicationOrganizational SkillsInterpersonal SkillsCollaborative MindsetStrategic Thinking

Certifications & Qualifications

Arkansas Administrator/Principal License

Industry Keywords

Charter SchoolPublic EducationUnderserved CommunitiesFamily EngagementAccountability

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Lead the launch of AMS Ft. Smith, establishing a high-performing public charter school from the ground up
Develop and implement the instructional and operational vision aligned with AMS's mission and academic model
Contribute to the charter application process, including academic programming, governance, and operational planning
Support school site selection and facility design
Implement rigorous, standards-aligned curriculum and instructional practices
Establish systems for data-driven instruction, progress monitoring, and continuous improvement
Lead development of a school culture grounded in high expectations, accountability, and student support
Recruit, hire, onboard, and develop instructional and operational staff
Provide coaching, feedback, and professional development
Foster a collaborative, results-oriented staff culture
Build relationships with families, community organizations, and local stakeholders
Serve as the public-facing leader of AMS Ft. Smith
Establish family engagement systems supporting student success and school sustainability
Complete extensive onboarding and leadership development training at AMS schools and support offices in the Phoenix metropolitan area
Travel to and temporarily reside in the Phoenix area for multiple extended training assignments
Maintain regular presence on the school campus and in the surrounding community

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree preferred
Holds or is eligible to obtain an Arkansas Administrator/Principal License
Demonstrated success in school-site leadership roles, including Principal, Assistant Principal, Dean, Director, or comparable leadership position
Strong instructional leadership background with experience improving student outcomes in underserved or at-risk communities
Proven ability to lead adults, manage teams, and build effective school systems
Experience using student achievement data to inform instructional and operational decisions
Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills
Strategic and entrepreneurial approach to school leadership and development
Ability to build strong relationships with students, families, staff, and community stakeholders
Strong instructional leadership and school culture-building skills
Ability to use data to drive decision-making and continuous improvement
Ability to develop and implement effective school systems and processes
Commitment to serving students and families in underserved communities
Willingness and ability to travel to and temporarily reside in the Phoenix, Arizona area for multiple extended training assignments, potentially lasting several weeks at a time
Updated resume, no more than 2 pages with relevant educational experience
Letter of Interest
90-second video introducing yourself, sharing your leadership vision, outlining your career goals, and explaining why you are ready for this leadership position
Applications must include all required materials; AI-generated responses may result in automatic disqualification

Benefits

Comp & perks

Medical, dental, and vision insurance
Life and disability insurance
401(k) retirement plan with employer contributions
Paid time off and paid holidays
Professional development and leadership development opportunities
Opportunities for career growth within a growing organization