The principal leads, manages and supports district alternative programs including: the Area Learning Center, Targeted Services and LinK12. He or she promotes accepting and responsive learning environments that ensure students are equipped to identify, pursue and attain personal success and become contributing community members. The principal also seeks to continuously develop, implement and sustain innovative college and career ready learning opportunities for nontraditional learners.
- Support the vision, mission, and strategic plan of the district while adhering to the legal requirements and budgeting systems prescribed for Minnesota State Approved Alternative Programs (SAAP) and online programs.
- Assume responsibility and instructional leadership for the planning, management, operation and continuous improvement of assigned programs
- Assess staffing needs; hire, supervise and complete evaluations for staff in assigned programs
- Identify the professional development needs of licensed and non-licensed staff; schedule, facilitate and/or conduct training as needed
- Create, maintain and balance budgets for assigned programs in collaboration with the Business Services Department
- Ensure efficient and effective referral processes for alternative programs
- Provide a wide range of opportunities for students to personalize their own learning in preparation for career and college readiness; monitor student progress on personalized learning plans
- Develop and implement effective means of engaging students and parents
- Implement fair and equitable disciplinary practices
- Ensure that students and families are connected to resources in the community that may contribute to their long term success
- Evaluate and update all course credit records for students in assigned programs
- Provide guidance services to students in assigned programs including course selection graduation requirements, PSEO, and other post-secondary planning functions
- Oversee the implementation of state and district assessments in assigned programs to ensure that they are administered with fidelity
- Plan and conduct an annual alternative programs graduation ceremony
- Collaborate with middle school and high school staff and administration on a regular basis to ensure seamless service provision to students with learning and/or social-emotional challenges
- Seek out additional innovative college and career pathways for non-traditional learners; develop plans to implement and evaluate these options
- Stay current with evidence-based instructional practices for learners at-risk for school failure; attend workshops and conferences as appropriate
- Collaborate with the Director of Community Education regarding joint opportunities for adult learners; support on-site Adult Education program as needed
- Collaborate with the LinK12 Program Coordinator to support the daily operations of the school, meet MDE reporting processes, lead the Special Education/504 processes and ensure compliance with legal requirements
- Develop and implement all aspects of after school and summer targeted services programming
- Act in a professional and ethical manner and adhere to the professional Code of Ethics
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Superintendent.