POSITION: Principal, University High School of Science and Engineering (Grades 9-12)
REPORTS TO: Superintendent of Schools/Executive Director of Instruction
POSITION SUMMARY: Hartford Public Schools seeks a visionary educational leader who combines strategic vision with hands-on experience to guide our University High School of Science and Engineering (UHSSE), a grades 9-12 magnet school. We're looking for a principal who demonstrates:
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A genuine passion for educating young people and helping students discover and exceed their own potential
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Deep commitment to closing achievement gaps through equity-focused practices
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Proven ability to create learning environments where all students thrive
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Extensive experience in urban education settings
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Understanding of the diverse academic, social, and emotional needs of adolescents
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A track record of providing strong instructional leadership centered on student learning
The ideal candidate will bring innovative thinking and practical experience to our school community, partnering with families, faculty, and staff to cultivate an environment where students develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed for future success. This leader will build a culture of respect, joy, and belonging that creates the conditions for both student and staff success.
Additionally, we seek candidates with:
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Comprehensive understanding of magnet school practices, laws, and legal settlements specific to Hartford's student enrollment requirements
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A demonstrated track record of academic success with diverse student populations
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Knowledge of athletics and co-curricular programming at the high school level
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Experience applying math and science curricular connections to project-based learning and real-world problem-solving
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Demonstrated experience managing higher education partnerships, including coordinating dual enrollment or early college programs, navigating articulation agreements, and fostering relationships with university faculty, advisors, and administrators
A critical dimension of this role is stewarding and strengthening our longstanding partnership with the University of Hartford. The principal will serve as the primary liaison between UHSSE and the University, ensuring that dual enrollment opportunities are accessible, well-coordinated, and aligned with both high school graduation requirements and college readiness goals. This includes overseeing course articulation agreements, collaborating with university departments, and supporting students as they navigate the exciting — and sometimes complex — experience of earning college credits while in high school.
University High School of Science and Engineering is a STEM-focused Early College High School located on the University of Hartford campus. As a close-knit "Kettle" of Hawks — a nod to our school mascot and the term for a group of hawks in flight — our students benefit from a unique opportunity to experience college life while still in high school. Many of our students earn enough credits to enter college as sophomores or juniors.
To learn more about our school community, visit https://www.uhsse.org/o/universityhigh.
QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES OF IDEAL CANDIDATE:
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Extensive instructional experience in urban/multi-cultural settings and cultural responsiveness
- Skills in monitoring and evaluating program effectiveness across diverse student populations
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Knowledge of and experience with the opportunities and challenges of magnet schools
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Specific knowledge of magnet school enrollment policies, procedures, and legal requirements
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Skill in navigating institutional cultures across both K-12 and higher education environments
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Experience managing dual enrollment or early college program logistics, including scheduling, course registration, and credit transfer processes
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Experience integrating project-base methodologies and connecting theoretical concepts to real-world applications and problem-solving
- Strong and collaborative leadership with an honest, transparent, and inclusive style that supports high student outcomes and educational excellence
- Understanding of adolescent development and age-appropriate programming for grades 9-12
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Knowledge of athletic program administration
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Demonstrated knowledge and effective use of technology in instruction, management, and communication
- Record of success leading and motivating adults (as a director, chair, coach, or administrator) and students
- Knowledge of pedagogy for development of curriculum and assessment that supports student learning
- Persistent use of data and researched-based focus on student achievement
- Demonstrated equitable leadership practices that impact instruction, culture, and climate
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Knowledge of all federal and state mandates and regulations (IDEA, 504, Title IX, MTSS, etc.)
- Demonstrated skill in diverse staff recruitment, development, supervision, evaluation, and retention
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Ability to develop the professional capacity and practice of school personnel to promote student achievement
- Outstanding and visible communication skills with the ability to foster strong relationships with all members of the school community (students, teachers, families, staff, university) and community at large to advance the school’s mission and vision
- Demonstrated experience building partnerships and resources for a school and a willingness to work with various community partners
- Unwavering commitment to high academic achievement, social-emotional, and whole child development of all students
- Experience with multiple approaches to address behaviors and instructional practices that empower students, such as restorative practices, student centered learning, etc.
- Knowledge of financial management and ability to manage school operations and resources to promote each student’s academic success and well-being
- Ability to inspire excellence in others and hold staff accountable for student growth, academic results, performance, and culturally responsive practices
- Five (5) years of successful teaching experience
- One (1) year of successful experience as an assistant principal
- One (1) year of successful experience as a building principal, preferred
CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: Connecticut certification in Intermediate Administration and Supervision (092) is required.
UNION AFFILIATION: Hartford Principals’ and Supervisors’ Association (HPSA)
SALARY AND TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: Salary is in accordance with the Hartford Principals’ and Supervisors’ Association’s 2026-2027 Schedule for twelve-month positions: 9-12 Principal, Salary Range of $149,609 to $175,940.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE: To be considered, all internal and external applicants must fully complete a Hartford Public Schools’ online application, which can be accessed through our Applicant Tracking System, Nimble, at https://app.hirenimble.com/jobs/hartford. Internal applicants should use a personal email address when applying. Please do not use your hartfordschools.org email. The code word for the internal application is hartford (lowercase “h”). Candidates’ application and supporting documents will be reviewed. Candidates who advance will be contacted directly by hiring managers for interviews.
