Founding Principal & Instructional Leader

Davis School Chicago; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 151,000 - 197,000; Full time

Job summary

Davis School Chicago seeks a founding leader to build a new Jewish college-preparatory high school in downtown Chicago from the ground up. You will shape culture, academics, and student life, guiding programs with entrepreneurial spirit and reflective leadership.

The role requires 5+ years in educational leadership; a Master’s degree with Ed.D./Ph.D. preferred, and a track record of improving instruction and building teams. Compensation reflects leadership scope and mission.

Qualifications

• Education: Master’s degree required; Ed.D. or Ph.D. preferred.
• Licensure: Illinois Principal Endorsement preferred.
• Experience: 5+ years of progressive educational leadership; college-preparatory, independent, Jewish day or faith-based school settings preferred.
• Leadership: Evidence of leading adults, improving instruction, and building culture.

Responsibilities

• Lead from the instructional core: coach teachers through observation and feedback; drive data-informed improvement.
• Build a warm, safe, high-expectations culture where every student is known, valued, challenged, and supported.
• Lead curriculum design, interdisciplinary innovation, assessment systems, and accreditation work; monitor college placement outcomes.
• Signal through time and priorities that high-quality teaching sits at the center of the school.

Skills

Educational leadership

Curriculum & instruction

Staff development

Public speaking

Innovation in education

Education

Master’s degree

Ed.D. or Ph.D. preferred

Job description

Davis School Chicago seeks a founding leader to build a new Jewish college-preparatory high school in downtown Chicago from the ground up. You will shape culture, academics, and student life, guiding programs with entrepreneurial spirit and reflective leadership.

The role requires 5+ years in educational leadership; a Master’s degree with Ed.D./Ph.D. preferred, and a track record of improving instruction and building teams. Compensation reflects leadership scope and mission.