Description
St. Paul Christian School is seeking a visionary, Faith-forward Principal to serve as our next leader, championing both elementary academic rigor and deep spiritual development in our early education and elementary community. If you are called to nurture the next generation of Christian leaders, we invite you to join us in our mission to inspire young hearts and minds for Christ.
A competitive salary and benefits package will be offered, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
College Transcripts and Three Professional References will be requested upon selection for interview
Position Summary: The Principal provides administrative, teaching, and spiritual leadership to maintain a school that excels in Christian-centered education. It is his/her responsibility to direct, lead, and inspire all aspects of the school’s daily operations with students, parents, and faculty. Through a shared passion, the Director/Principal promotes the early childhood ministries (faith foundation) of the church while building relationships with families and faculty for the overall benefit of each student.
School Profile: St. Paul Christian School, nationally accredited via the NALS (National Association of Lutheran Schools), offers preschool/VPK through sixth grade; it operates in a stand-alone building, in conjunction with some rooms in the affiliated Lutheran church.
2025-26 Class structure: 3 rooms-VPK, 2 rooms-Kindergarten, 2 rooms-1st grade, 2 rooms-2nd grade, 1 room-3rd grade, 1 room-4th grade, 1 room-5th+6h grade (combined).
2025-2026 enrollment: 169.
Before and After School Care Program -- additional 50 student enrollment.
Summer Camp Program -- apprx. 50 students.
Requirements
Educational requirements:
A Bachelor's degree in early childhood education desired.
Master’s degree in educational administration preferred.
A minimum of 5 years of experience teaching in a K-5 grade level, with supplemental experience in an administrative role or supervisory position.
Or, an equivalent combination of education and experience to successfully perform
the duties of the job as described herein.
Attainment within one year of employment, and maintenance of an Advanced Director Credential and any other credentials mandated by the State of Florida.
Qualifications:
Possesses and exemplifies a faith-based, Christian commitment.
Motivator for students and faculty in hopes to grow in their faith.
Ability to understand and manage a Christian school program similar to St. Paul’s.
Familiarity with budgeting and financial management of an educational institution.
Excellent oral and written communication skills for various age interactions.
Acknowledges a commitment awareness to gender and ethnic/national origin diversity at all levels in the workplace and within the student body.
Must pass the State of Florida background check.
Abridged Synopsis of Vital Responsibilities:
1. Administration
Recognized as head of the school who supervises all faculty, oversees the entire
day-to-day school operation, along with being the academic and instructional leader.
Reports directly to established, internal School Board/Board of Education, which is a designated committee under the authority of St. Paul Lutheran Church Council.
Complies with State Licensing (VPK) regulations, including to complete required paperwork.
Coordinates preparation for school accreditation requirements.
Supervises the maintenance of all records, and registration documents.
Prepares and executes school budget, along with overseeing fiscal compliance.
2. Operation
Plans the school year calendar/posts the established program activities.
Works in cooperation with the Senior Pastor, assisting in a mission capacity for
the Children's Ministry of the church.
Reviews with the School Board assessments of school/ playground needs, and
safety issues.
Coordinates qualified van drivers for school transportation needs, including field trips.
Coordinates schedule and activities with Aftercare Supervisor for Before/After School Care Program and Summer Camp.
3. Development-Supervision and Personnel
Recruits, hires, trains, and formally evaluate all staff members in compliance with state regulations, through personal, classroom observations.
Authors and oversees employee contracts while adhering to approved school budget and policies.
Encourages and provides opportunities for team building and staff collaboration.
Shepherds the staff and demonstrates servant-leadership both academically and spiritually.
Provides a vision for program development, enhancements, and school growth.
4. Curriculum and Instruction
Collaborates with teachers to plan instructional activities for appropriate student learning development.
Evaluates the instructional curriculum and procures it along with other required supplies/equipment.
Incorporates Lutheran Church Calendar during school planning sessions.
Stays abreast of leadership, educational, management trends, and innovations via professional development, research, professional journals, and networking.
5. Facilities and Safety
Monitors all safety compliance for students and faculty.
Reviews safety issues at regular staff meeting.
Oversees annual Okaloosa County Health Department inspection.
6. Marketing and Advertising
Maintains and updates the school handbook.
Oversees and assists with the school’s digital presence, including website and social media channels, to engage with the community and attract prospective families.
Implements strategies to recruit, maintain enrollment, and meet community needs.
Provides school tours with prospective families.
