REVISED SALARY RANGE
POSITION: Principal, Betances STEM Magnet School (Grades 5-8)
REPORTS TO: Superintendent of Schools/Deputy Superintendent of Schools and Academic Excellence/Executive Director of Instruction
POSITION SUMMARY: Hartford Public Schools seeks a visionary educational leader who brings both heart and expertise to guide our Betances STEM Magnet School. This dynamic middle school integrates traditional core subjects with an advanced academic focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, preparing students with 21st-century skills to become confident problem solvers and critical thinkers. We're looking for a principal who demonstrates:
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A genuine passion for educating young people and unlocking their full 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 with understanding of diverse community needs
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Understanding of the unique academic, social, and emotional needs of adolescents during this critical development stage
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Track record of providing strong instructional leadership centered on student learning and growth
The ideal candidate will combine innovative thinking with practical experience, partnering authentically 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 conditions for both student and staff to flourish. 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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Demonstrated track record of academic success with diverse student populations
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Knowledge of programming across middle grades
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Experience applying STEM curricular connections to project-based learning and real-world problem-solving, including familiarity with Project Lead The Way (PLTW) curriculum and implementation
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Understanding of how STEM integration across all content areas deepens student understanding and extends learning beyond the classroom
This leadership role offers the opportunity to guide a school community committed to building strong background knowledge in STEM fields while fostering the critical thinking skills that will serve our students throughout their educational journey and beyond. To learn more about Betances STEM Magnet School, please click here.
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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Experience integrating STEM education with project-base methodologies and connecting theoretical concepts to real-world applications and problem-solving, including experience with Project Lead The Way (PLTW) curriculum and implementation
- 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 5-8
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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) 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, required
- 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: K-8 Principal, Salary Range of $143,077 to $162,873.
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.
