Assistant to the Lower School Principal

TrulyHired; Providence (RI); On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

TrulyHired is seeking an Assistant to the Principal for Paul Cuffee School in Providence, Rhode Island. This role involves comprehensive administrative support, efficient management of school operations, and communication with families and students.

The successful candidate must have a High School Diploma and at least 3 years of administrative experience. Proficiency in Google Workspace and Student Information Systems, alongside bilingual skills in Spanish and English, is essential. The position offers an opportunity to make a positive impact in a vibrant school environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of administrative experience in an office setting.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities with attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Provide support to the Principal including scheduling and correspondence.
• Serve as the primary manager of the Student Information System.
• Coordinate logistics for school events and communication.

Skills

Organizational abilities

Interpersonal communication

Multitasking

Bilingual (Spanish-English)

Education

High School Diploma

Tools

Google Workspace

Student Information Systems

Job description

Job Description

Paul Cuffee School, a K-12 public charter school of choice located in Providence, Rhode Island, educates a diverse community of students. The school values personal initiative, perseverance, and social responsibility, offering a rigorous academic program enriched with maritime experiences to foster discovery and critical thinking.

Reports To: School Principal

Status: Non-Exempt, 12‑Month Position

Hours: 1.0 FTE (40 hours per week)

Position Summary

The Assistant to the Principal provides comprehensive administrative and operational support to the Principal and serves as a key liaison among administrators, staff, students, and families. The role ensures smooth daily operation of school systems by managing communication, data, scheduling, and logistics while maintaining strict confidentiality.

Key Responsibilities

Administrative & Clerical Support

• Provide direct support to the Principal, including scheduling, calendar management, correspondence, and follow‑up on tasks.
• Prepare and distribute letters, reports, meeting materials, and other documents.
• Maintain organized and confidential student, staff, and school files.
• Greet visitors, answer calls, and assist with inquiries in a professional and welcoming manner.
• Support internal and external communications, including newsletters, notices, and Spanish translations.
• Maintain an orderly and efficient main office and assist other administrative offices as needed.

Student Information & Data Systems

• Serve as the primary manager of the Student Information System (SIS), ensuring accurate and timely updates to student, staff, and course data each school year.
• Train and support staff in using SIS, attendance, and absence management systems.
• Maintain daily attendance records, communicate with families regarding absences, and support the attendance team.
• Coordinate grading and reporting processes, including report cards and progress reports.
• Collaborate with admissions to support student enrollment, withdrawals, and records requests.
• Assist with compliance and data reporting for state and district requirements.

Staff Absence & Substitute Coordination

• Manage staff absences using the automated absence management system and ensure appropriate classroom coverage.
• Maintain substitute lists, assist in onboarding, and provide daily coverage communication.
• Process hourly staff time and attendance; collaborate with HR and the Business Office on payroll and leave documentation.

Operations & Logistics

• Coordinate logistics for field trips, parent conferences, assemblies, and school events.
• Manage purchasing and supplies: create purchase orders, process invoices, and track deliveries.
• Oversee mailings, deliveries, postage, key distribution, and related administrative tasks.
• Maintain and update emergency procedures; schedule and document required safety drills.
• Coordinate student transportation and communicate updates to families and staff.
• Support facilities and operations teams with event setup and special projects.
• Prepare materials for testing, professional development, and schoolwide events.

Communication & Family Engagement

• Serve as liaison between the Principal, teachers, families, and students.
• Serve as primary user for ParentSquare and other family/caregiver communication systems.
• Coordinate and support school and family events, including those held after school hours.
• Maintain accurate parent contact lists and schoolwide communication systems.
• Provide Spanish interpretation and translation for meetings, conferences, and communications.
• Support logistics and translation for parent‑teacher conferences.

Continuous Improvement

• Model integrity, empathy, reflection, high expectations, responsiveness, and clear communication.
• Demonstrate a growth mindset and an asset‑based approach to problem solving.
• Prioritize effectively so that all tasks are completed on time.
• Collaborate with administrative teams across divisions to align and improve systems.
• Participate in professional learning and staff meetings to strengthen job‑related skills.
• Support the development and documentation of office procedures and onboarding materials.
• Maintain confidentiality, uphold professionalism, and perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• High School Diploma required.
• Minimum 3 years of administrative experience in an office setting.
• Proficiency with Google Workspace and student information/data management systems.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities with attention to detail and deadlines.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with students, families, and staff.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast‑paced environment.
• Bilingual (Spanish‑English) required – strong oral and written communication skills.
• Commitment to confidentiality, reliability, and professional conduct.

Working Conditions

• Office setting within a school environment, engaging regularly with students, families, and staff.
• Frequent interruptions and high activity requiring flexibility, focus, and composure.
• Extended periods of computer use, sitting, and standing; ability to lift up to 40 lbs.
• Punctual, consistent attendance required to support daily operations.
• Participation in after‑school and occasional evening events as needed.
• Ability to cover duties or assist with supervision as assigned.