Principal

Date Posted: October 8, 2026

Salary: $90,000–$130,000 per year

Job Type: Full-Time

Location: Plainfield, Illinois

About Parkland Preparatory Academy: Parkland Preparatory Academy is an innovative therapeutic day school dedicated to helping students with diverse academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs reach their full potential. Our team works collaboratively to provide individualized support, meaningful educational opportunities, and a structured environment where students can grow and succeed. We are seeking an experienced, motivated, and student-centered Principal to lead our Plainfield campus. This individual will oversee daily school operations, support staff development, maintain regulatory compliance, and ensure high-quality educational and therapeutic programming. The ideal candidate is a strong leader who leads by example, builds positive relationships, and is committed to creating a safe, supportive, and effective learning environment for students and staff.

Qualifications and Experience: Must hold a valid Illinois Type 75 Administrative License and LBS1 Certification. Knowledge of educational practices, child development, classroom management, and therapeutic interventions. Prior supervisory or school leadership experience preferred. Familiarity with therapeutic school regulations and special education requirements preferred. Knowledge of Illinois special education regulations, including Administrative Code 226 and Part 401.Understanding of mandated reporting requirements and crisis intervention procedures. Strong leadership, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills. Ability to manage multiple priorities, delegate responsibilities, and work collaboratively with diverse teams. Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and general computer operations. Ability to remain calm, professional, and effective in challenging or emergency situations.

School Leadership and Operations: Establish and maintain school-wide expectations, professional standards, and performance goals. Oversee daily school operations to ensure effective educational and therapeutic programming. Monitor school safety and security, including the building and surrounding property. Coordinate class schedules, lesson plans, student records, and other essential school functions. Assist with school budget planning, resource allocation, and building maintenance. Identify challenges affecting school operations and proactively implement solutions.

Staff Supervision and Development: Observe, evaluate, and provide feedback to teachers and paraprofessionals. Participate in recruiting, interviewing, hiring, and onboarding school personnel. Organize staff meetings, team meetings, in-service training, and professional development opportunities. Support ongoing staff growth by identifying training needs and promoting instructional best practices. Address staff concerns professionally, respectfully, and with a solution-oriented approach. Delegate responsibilities effectively and foster a collaborative, accountable team environment.

Student Support and Special Education Compliance: Meet with prospective students and their families to explain school programming and services. Participate in IEP meetings as the school administrator and authorized representative for educational services. Monitor student academic, behavioral, and social-emotional progress and use outcome data to guide program improvements. Support the implementation and ongoing development of individualized educational and behavioral interventions. Promote Parkland Preparatory Academy’s social-emotional programming. Assist with crisis intervention and physical restraint when necessary and in accordance with applicable training, policies, and regulations. Maintain current professional certifications and complete required training to ensure compliance with Illinois State Board of Education requirements.

Communication and Collaboration: Build strong working relationships with teachers, therapists, counselors, administrators, families, district representatives, and outside agencies. Communicate clearly and professionally with parents, guardians, staff, and community partners. Respond to concerns with professionalism, tact, and a focus on positive outcomes. Maintain a positive representation of Parkland Preparatory Academy within the school community. Stay informed about developments in special education, therapeutic programming, school leadership, and instructional practices. Demonstrate knowledge of emergency and disaster procedures and ensure readiness to respond appropriately.