Gaming and Technology Academy of Saginaw (GATA)
Teachers First is seeking an exceptional Principal for the Gaming and Technology Academy of Saginaw (GATA)!
The Gaming and Technology Academy of Saginaw (GATA) is opening in Fall 2026 and is seeking a visionary, student-centered leader to build and lead an innovative school from the ground up.
GATA is designed to be a highly engaging school where academics, technology, creativity, competition, and real-world learning come together through gamified systems, hands-on experiences, and strong relationships to prepare students for the future. This is a unique opportunity to shape the culture, systems, and vision of a brand-new school while making a lasting impact on students, staff, and families. Positions are being filled on a rolling basis. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply early.
What Makes GATA Different?
At GATA, learning is an adventure. Students level up through meaningful learning experiences while building critical thinking, collaboration, communication, and problem-solving skills. Technology enhances instruction—not replaces it—and every student is challenged to discover their strengths and passions.
As GATA's founding Principal, you will establish a culture of excellence, innovation, and belonging while leading a team of passionate educators committed to preparing students for success in an ever-changing world.
Position Summary
The Principal serves as the instructional leader and chief administrator of the Academy. This individual is responsible for creating a positive school culture, leading high-quality instruction, developing staff, building strong partnerships with families and the community, and ensuring the successful day-to-day operation of the school.
The successful candidate will be an energetic, collaborative leader who believes in high expectations for all students and is excited to help launch an innovative school where technology and student engagement are at the forefront.
Essential Responsibilities
- Provide visionary instructional leadership focused on student achievement.
- Recruit, develop, coach, and evaluate high-performing staff.
- Build a positive, collaborative school culture centered on relationships and student success.
- Foster strong partnerships with families and the community.
- Support innovative instructional practices and meaningful technology integration.
- Utilize student achievement data to drive continuous school improvement.
- Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local laws, policies, and regulations.
- Oversee school operations, budgeting, staffing, scheduling, and student services.
- Maintain a safe, welcoming, and inclusive learning environment.
- Collaborate with Teachers First and the Academy Board to implement the school's mission and strategic goals.
Qualifications
- Master's degree in Educational Leadership or a related field.
- Valid Michigan Administrator Certificate or ability to obtain appropriate administrative approval.
- Minimum of three years of successful school leadership experience preferred.
- Demonstrated success improving student achievement and school culture.
- Strong knowledge of curriculum, instruction, assessment, and school improvement.
- Excellent communication, organizational, and leadership skills.
- Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
- Must be available to begin in-person employment in Saginaw, Michigan.
Why Join GATA?
- Lead a founding team and help build an innovative public school from the ground up.
- Opportunity to shape the school's vision, culture, and long-term success.
- Collaborative and supportive leadership environment.
- Meaningful opportunities to innovate and make a lasting impact.
- Competitive salary and benefits.
Benefits
GATA offers a competitive benefits package designed to support the health, well-being, and financial future of our employees, including:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
- 401(k) retirement plan with employer matching contributions.
- Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options.
- Supplemental insurance options, including life, disability, critical illness, and accident coverage.
- $2,500 annual medical stipend for employees who choose to waive medical insurance.
- Benefits begin the first day of the month following 30 days of employment.
If you're passionate about educational leadership, innovation, and creating extraordinary opportunities for students, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply today and help lead the future of learning at the Gaming and Technology Academy of Saginaw!
Pay: $75,000.00 - $105,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
