Principal - Elementary School at Shanel Valley Academy

Application Deadline

Until Filled

Date Posted
6/10/2025
Contact
Number of Openings
1
Salary
Pay Range
100,000 - 145,000 Annually
Add'l Salary Info
Based on Experience
Length of Work Year
12 months
Employment Type
Full Time

About the Employer

Shanél Valley Academy (SVA) is a small, rural public charter school serving TK–6th grade students in Hopland, California. Rooted in community school principles and project-based learning, SVA is committed to whole-child education, inclusive practices, and deep family engagement. SVA offers a state preschool, expanded learning programs, and strong community partnerships that support academic, social-emotional, and wellness outcomes. As a growing school, we are seeking leaders who are equity-driven, collaborative, and passionate about reimagining what is possible for students in rural communities.

Requirements / Qualifications

1. Cover letter with introduction including written response to the six questions (A-F) 2. Resume including applicable professional preparation, and education 3. Unofficial Transcripts (Official transcripts required upon employment) 4. List of 3 professional references and letters of recommendation

A) RELEVANT EXPERIENCE & PREPARATION Describe the experiences that have most prepared you to be successful in this administrative role, particularly in a rural, TK–6th grade community school focused on project-based learning and whole-child development. Include both the quantity and quality of your leadership and instructional experience. If you have limited formal administrative experience, describe the transferable skills, personal qualities, or leadership experiences that position you for success in this role. B) SCHOOL CLIMATE & CULTURE What is your philosophy for creating and sustaining a safe, supportive, and inclusive school culture? How do you support and inspire a positive climate for both staff and students? Share strategies you have used to build morale, foster belonging, and cultivate engagement across the school community. C) RELATIONSHIP BUILDING How do you build trust and strong relationships with students, staff, and families, especially in communities impacted by trauma? Describe a time when you faced interpersonal challenges in a leadership role. How did you respond, and what did you learn? D) CONFLICT RESOLUTION Provide a specific example of a time you managed a difficult conflict with a staff member, parent, or student. What was your approach to resolving the issue? What was the outcome, and how did you maintain or rebuild relationships? E) INSTRUCTIONAL LEADERSHIP How do you support and grow teachers in their instructional practice? How do you assess the impact of your instructional leadership on student success? Share any experience with leading or participating in Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) or collaborative teacher teams. F) STUDENT BEHAVIOR & SUPPORT What is your approach to student discipline and behavioral support in a trauma-informed, inclusive school setting? How do you balance accountability with empathy and restorative practices?

Requirements / Qualifications

1. Cover letter with introduction including written response to the six questions (A-F) 2. Resume including applicable professional preparation, and education 3. Unofficial Transcripts (Official transcripts required upon employment) 4. List of 3 professional references and letters of recommendation

A) RELEVANT EXPERIENCE & PREPARATION Describe the experiences that have most prepared you to be successful in this administrative role, particularly in a rural, TK–6th grade community school focused on project-based learning and whole-child development. Include both the quantity and quality of your leadership and instructional experience. If you have limited formal administrative experience, describe the transferable skills, personal qualities, or leadership experiences that position you for success in this role. B) SCHOOL CLIMATE & CULTURE What is your philosophy for creating and sustaining a safe, supportive, and inclusive school culture? How do you support and inspire a positive climate for both staff and students? Share strategies you have used to build morale, foster belonging, and cultivate engagement across the school community. C) RELATIONSHIP BUILDING How do you build trust and strong relationships with students, staff, and families, especially in communities impacted by trauma? Describe a time when you faced interpersonal challenges in a leadership role. How did you respond, and what did you learn? D) CONFLICT RESOLUTION Provide a specific example of a time you managed a difficult conflict with a staff member, parent, or student. What was your approach to resolving the issue? What was the outcome, and how did you maintain or rebuild relationships? E) INSTRUCTIONAL LEADERSHIP How do you support and grow teachers in their instructional practice? How do you assess the impact of your instructional leadership on student success? Share any experience with leading or participating in Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) or collaborative teacher teams. F) STUDENT BEHAVIOR & SUPPORT What is your approach to student discipline and behavioral support in a trauma-informed, inclusive school setting? How do you balance accountability with empathy and restorative practices?