Description

The Ephrata School District is seeking an experienced and dynamic instructional leader to serve as the principal of Columbia Ridge Elementary School. The principal is responsible for fostering a culture of excellence in teaching and learning, promoting a safe and inclusive environment, and ensuring the academic and social-emotional success of all students.

The ideal candidate will be a visible, relationship-centered leader who values collaboration, communicates effectively and supports a positive and productive school culture. This leaders will demonstrate sound decision-making, professionalism and a commitment to continuous improvement.

At Columbia Ridge Elementary, we believe that students are extraordinary. Education is about KIDS and their LEARNING, and we are committed to ensuring that every student feels valued, supported and has a strong sense of belonging within our school community.

Requirements

The responsibilities are representative, not exhaustive, and may be modified:

Instructional Leadership

• Champion high-quality instruction aligned with district goals and state standards.
• Support the implementation of effective instructional practices and meaningful assessment strategies.
• Lead and support Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) focused on collaboration, student learning and results.
• Provide ongoing, honest and constructive feedback, coaching, and professional development to support staff growth, including implementation of the TPEP evaluation system.
  Encourage teacher leadership and collaboration in instructional planning and decision-making.

Student Support and Discipline

• Promote a safe, respectful, and inclusive school environment for all students and staff.
• Support the implementation of school-wide expectations and behavior systems in a consistent, fair, and developmentally appropriate manner, including appropriate responses to repeated behaviors.
• Collaborate with counselors, specialists, and support staff to address student academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs.
• Utilize available school and community resources to support students and families.
• Address disciplinary matters in alignment with district policies and procedures.

Staff Support and Professional Culture

• Support and encourage a collaborative and respectful professional environment.
• Consider staff voice and promote shared ownership in school improvement efforts.
• Provide support to staff in addressing student needs and engaging with families.
• Promote effective use of collaborative structures, including PLCs.
• Uphold and respect the collective bargaining agreement.
• Establish clear systems for organization, communication, and scheduling.
• Provide clear expectations, information, and support to all staff.

Family and Community Engagement

• Build and maintain strong partnerships with families and the broader community.
• Communicate effectively and professionally with families and stakeholders.
• Encourage family engagement in the educational process.
• Address questions and concerns in a timely and respectful manner.

Curriculum Development and Assessment

• Oversee the implementation of a rigorous and engaging curriculum that aligns with state and district standards.
• Monitor and assess student progress, continuously refining systems to ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed.
• Maintain a results-oriented mindset, ensuring assessment drives instruction and improves student outcomes.
• Support the consistent implementation adopted curriculum, essential standards and interventions.

Professional Development

• Provide support and professional development opportunities for staff to enhance Instructional effectiveness.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and lifelong learning among staff members.
• Support alignment of instruction and student needs.

Operational and Administrative Leadership

• Effectively manage school resources, including budget, staffing, and facilities.
• Ensure compliance with district, state, and federal policies and procedures.
• Support the implementation of school safety protocols and emergency procedures.
• Maintain clear and effective organizational systems to support school operations, including scheduling, communication, and coordination of school activities.
• Work collaboratively with district and building administrators to support alignment, communication, and shared goals across the system.

Desired Leadership Characteristics

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Sound judgment and effective decision-making
• Ability to build and maintain positive relationships
• Professionalism and integrity in all interactions
• Reflective and growth-oriented mindset
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and responsibilities
• Commitment to collaboration and continuous improvement
• Ability to follow through on commitments and problem-solve effectively

Qualifications:

Valid Washington State Administrator Certificate
Minimum of five (5) years of teaching experience (elementary experience preferred)
School leadership experience preferred
Knowledge of instructional best practices, assessment, and data use
Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills
Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders