Principal-Guide

• Reports To: Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
• Location: Acton Academy Calgary Central

Position Summary

Are you ready to lead and guide the future of education? Acton Academy Calgary Central (AACC) is seeking an inspiring founding leader to serve as both Principal and Guide in our innovative, learner-driven start up school. This dual-role position blends operational leadership with direct engagement in fostering a self-directed educational environment.
As Principal, you will provide strategic direction, oversee daily operations, and build a vibrant community that empowers students, families, and educators to achieve their fullest potential. As Guide, you will actively support learners on their educational journeys, cultivating an environment that promotes independence, critical thinking, and collaboration.
This role is ideal for an entrepreneurial professional with a passion for redefining 21st-century education, a creative and adaptable mindset, and a strong capacity for fostering innovation. With the potential to grow into a Head of School or combined leadership position, this is an exceptional opportunity for someone eager to shape the future of education.

Key Responsibilities
Educational Leadership
• Lead the implementation of learner-centered practices that inspire curiosity and empower students to take ownership of their educational journey.
• Ensure adherence to Alberta Education standards while fostering an environment of creativity and innovation.
• Oversee curriculum development and instructional strategies to maintain exceptional academic quality, incorporating Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and differentiated instruction principles.
• Align curriculum with Alberta Education requirements and Acton Academy’s unique educational framework.
• Utilize feedback and data to monitor learner progress, implementing evidence-based strategies to promote continuous improvement and support.

Guide Responsibilities

• Facilitate a world-class, learner-driven environment where students take responsibility for their learning and community.
• Inspire, equip, and empower learners to lead their own educational journey, gradually reducing their need for direct guidance.
• Utilize Socratic methods to promote critical thinking and self-discovery, avoiding direct instruction.
• Design and maintain a prepared learning environment, schedule, and projects that encourage independence, collaboration, and creativity.
• Model and instill a growth mindset and a positive studio culture through intentional language, actions, and leadership.
• Enforce studio guardrails to ensure a safe, respectful, and thriving learning environment for all participants.
• Observe and respond to learners' needs, providing personalized support while fostering a sense of belonging and inclusivity.

Operational Management
• Oversee daily school operations, ensuring the creation of a dynamic, inclusive, and effective learning environment.
• Coordinate school schedules, events, and initiatives to align with Acton Academy Calgary Central’s mission and vision.
• Collaborate with the CEO to maximize resource efficiency and maintain operations within budgetary guidelines.

Staff Supervision and Development
• Recruit, lead, and inspire a highly dedicated team of educators and support staff.
• Provide opportunities for continuous professional development, mentorship, and skill-building.
• Foster a workplace culture rooted in collaboration, positivity, and a shared commitment to excellence.

Student and Family Engagement
• Build meaningful relationships with students and families to establish trust and foster active engagement.
• Address learner needs and conflicts with empathy, utilizing restorative and growth-oriented approaches.
• Collaborate with families to support and nurture each learner’s development and success.

Community and Stakeholder Collaboration
• Act as a passionate ambassador for Acton Academy Calgary Central, exemplifying its vision and values within the broader community.
• Collaborate with the CEO, Board of Directors, and key stakeholders to achieve strategic goals and objectives.
• Represent AACC with professionalism and confidence at Alberta Education and community events.

Governance and Reporting

• Deliver clear, comprehensive reports to the CEO on academic, operational, and community achievements.
• Leverage data-driven insights to guide strategic planning and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Support the development and refinement of policies to align with the school’s growth and vision.

Qualifications
Education and Experience
• Bachelor’s degree and valid Alberta Professional Teaching Certificate.
• Master’s degree in a related field (preferred).
• Certification in Montessori or Reggio-Emilia pedagogy.
• Alberta Leadership Quality Standard (LQS) Certificate or in the process of obtaining it.
• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience, including at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Familiarity with Alberta Education standards and regulations.
• Equivalent qualifications may be considered at the Board’s discretion.

Skills and Attributes
• Inspirational leader with a deep understanding of learner-driven education.
• Adaptable and resilient in dynamic educational environments, with strong emotional intelligence.
• Exceptional organizational, time-management, and strategic problem-solving skills.
• Outstanding interpersonal, communication, listening, and public speaking abilities.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a proactive approach to innovation and change.
• Ability to implement and manage innovative educational practices aligned with strategic goals.
• Proficiency in Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, and technology tools for collaboration and operational efficiency.
• Data-driven decision-maker with a service-oriented ethic toward students, colleagues, and the community.
• Skilled in fostering positive, collaborative relationships and articulating clear educational goals.

Key Terms of Employment
• Reports directly to the CEO and collaborates closely with other school leadership.
• Competitive salary and benefits package, based on experience and qualifications, including participation in the Alberta Teachers' Retirement Fund (ATRF).
• Full compliance with Alberta labor laws and Alberta Education standards.

How to Apply: If you are ready to inspire and guide young learners on their educational journey, we invite you to apply. Please submit your cover letter and resume via email to [email protected]. For additional information about Acton Academy Calgary Central, visit our website at www.ActonCentral.org.