About This Role
An Assistant Principal at New Leader Academy helps run the daily operations of a specialized therapeutic day school for students with emotional, behavioral, mental health, and autism spectrum needs. This role involves ensuring high-quality instruction and therapeutic programs, maintaining regulatory compliance, and fostering a positive school culture focused on student and staff growth.
Responsibilities
- Assist the Superintendent/Principal with daily school operations and decision-making
- Support curriculum development, implementation, and continuous improvement of academic and therapeutic programs (with emphasis on autism and behavioral needs)
- Lead staff training, professional development, and coaching initiatives
- Ensure compliance with all state, federal, and local regulations (ISBE, IDEA, etc.)
- Oversee staffing needs, including recruitment, hiring, onboarding, and performance management
- Collaborate with teachers, therapists, and support staff to create individualized student success plans
- Manage student behavior support systems and crisis intervention protocols
- Monitor and analyze student academic and behavioral data to drive improvement
- Build strong relationships with families, community partners, and external service providers
- Support a safe, inclusive, and therapeutic school climate for all students and staff
- Handle disciplinary matters and due process procedures as needed
- Perform additional duties as assigned by the Principal
Requirements
- Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) with Director of Special Education Endorsement (required)
- Master
- Minimum of 3
- Strong knowledge of special education law (IDEA), autism-specific interventions, trauma-informed practices, and restorative approaches
- Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills
- Ability to remain calm and decisive in challenging situations
- Passion for working with students who have significant emotional, behavioral, and autism-related needs
Nice to have:
- Illinois PEL with Administrative Endorsement (Type 75 or Principal Endorsement)
- Prior administrative or leadership experience in a therapeutic or special education setting
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Tuition assistance
- Vision insurance
- Comprehensive benefits package (health, dental, vision, retirement)
- Professional development opportunities
- Supportive leadership team and collaborative work environment
- Meaningful work that changes students
Important Details
- Reports To: Superintendent/Principal
About the Company
New Leader Academy is a specialized therapeutic day school serving students with emotional, behavioral, mental health, and autism spectrum needs. It provides a supportive, trauma-informed learning environment where students receive integrated academic instruction, therapeutic services, and social-emotional skill development. Its mission is to help every student become a confident, capable leader in their own life.