HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL

Department:    Coupeville High School
Supervisor:      Superintendent
Association:     Non-represented
Salary range $167,272 - $197,278 commensurate with experience and qualifications

The Coupeville School District Board of Directors presents

an invitation to apply for the position of

HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL

Coupeville School District seeks a visionary, collaborative leader to serve as the next principal of our High School (grades 9-12). This exceptional instructional leader will work closely with students, staff, families, and community partners to create a vibrant educational environment with a strong culture and effective procedures that prepare all students for success.

The successful candidate will embrace Coupeville's unique community identity while leading our school to new heights of excellence.

About Our School

Our Middle and High School campus serves approximately 500 students in grades 6-12, providing a personalized educational experience where students are known, valued, and challenged to excel.

A Culture of Excellence: We are committed to creating an exemplary learning environment where high academic expectations are coupled with strong support systems. The principal will lead efforts to continuously improve instructional practices, implement research-based strategies, and foster a culture of growth for both students and staff.

A Place Where Everyone Belongs: Our middle and high school takes pride in fostering strong, personal connections between students and staff. We're small enough that everyone is seen and valued for their unique contributions, yet large enough to offer diverse opportunities in academics, athletics, and activities.

Effective Systems and Procedures: The principal will develop and maintain clear, consistent systems that support a safe, orderly learning environment. From attendance and discipline procedures to academic interventions and celebrations of success, these systems ensure that our school runs efficiently while maximizing instructional time.

Minimum Qualifications

• Master's Degree in Educational Administration or related field
• Valid Washington State Principal Certification (or ability to obtain)
• Successful experience as a middle or high school administrator
• Valid Washington State teaching certificate with successful middle/high school teaching experience
• Demonstrated success in instructional leadership and curriculum development
• Proven ability to build positive school culture and implement effective systems
• A commitment to equity and inclusivity in education
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills
• Strong organizational and management abilities
• Knowledge of Washington state learning standards and assessment systems
• Experience in staff development, evaluation, and supervision
• Ability to work collaboratively with staff, students, parents, and community members
• History of data-informed decision-making to improve student outcomes

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience as a middle or high school principal
• Demonstrated success in improving student achievement through instructional leadership
• Experience in developing master schedules that maximize learning opportunities
• Expertise in creating systems that support positive student behavior and school culture
• Background in professional learning communities and collaborative leadership models
• Experience implementing effective RTI/MTSS frameworks to support all students
• Knowledge of best practices in secondary curriculum and instruction
• Experience working with diverse student populations
• Track record of innovative program development and implementation
• Experience in budget development and resource allocation
• Understanding of Career & Technical Education programs and pathways
• Ability to live in or near the district to fully participate in community events and activities

Essential Responsibilities

Instructional Leadership

• Provide visionary instructional leadership throughout the middle and high school
• Lead curriculum development, implementation, and evaluation processes
• Facilitate a culture of continuous improvement in teaching and learning
• Coordinate professional development to enhance instructional practices
• Lead data-informed decision-making processes to improve student outcomes
• Observe, coach, and evaluate staff to improve instructional effectiveness

School Culture and Climate

• Create and maintain a positive, inclusive school culture where all students and staff feel valued
• Develop and implement strategies to build strong relationships among students, staff, and families
• Lead initiatives that promote student voice, leadership, and ownership of learning
• Ensure a safe, respectful learning environment for all students
• Foster school pride and traditions that strengthen community connections
• Build strong partnerships with families and engage them in their children's education

Systems and Procedures

• Establish clear, consistent systems and procedures for all aspects of school operations
• Develop and implement effective student discipline and attendance procedures
• Create and maintain master schedules that maximize learning opportunities
• Manage school operations, including budget, facilities, and resources
• Implement and monitor school improvement plans aligned with district strategic goals
• Supervise and evaluate certificated and classified personnel

Additional Responsibilities

• Assist student activities, athletics, and extracurricular programs
• Support the development and growth of Career & Technical Education programs
• Develop community partnerships to create authentic learning opportunities for students
• Collaborate with district leadership team on district-wide initiatives
• Engage actively in community events and activities
• Perform other duties as assigned by the superintendent

About the District

Coupeville School District is a public school district serving about 1030 students from preschool through age 21, with four schools on three campuses: Coupeville Elementary, Coupeville Middle and High, and Open Den, our Open Doors Youth Reengagement program.

Coupeville schools are known as a place where students and teachers connect on an individual level. Every student is seen and valued for what they bring to our school community, and our commitment is to guide each student towards an educational foundation that propels them to reach their full potential.

Community engagement thrives in Coupeville, where the town actively rallies behind our students at various events, from the Homecoming Parade down Main Street to cheering for our Coupeville Wolves at home games. The district enjoys partnerships with local nonprofit organizations that fundraise in support of our students. Our consistently positive record for passing enrichment and capital project levies underscores the community's ongoing commitment to our educational mission.

In 2022, following an inclusive strategic planning process involving diverse stakeholders, Coupeville launched its five-year Strategic Plan. This comprehensive road map serves as our guide for decision-making and continuous improvement. Rooted in our vision to prepare every student for their future, our district is guided by core values: Students First, Accountability, Sense of Belonging, Transparency, and Educational Equity.

About Coupeville

Coupeville is located in the heart of Central Whidbey Island, approximately 45 miles north of Seattle and accessible by ferry or bridge. The town was settled in the 1850s by farmers and sea captains, who built the historic wharf and grew crops at the prairies on the edge of town.

Coupeville and Central Whidbey offer peaceful landscapes and a variety of outdoor pursuits. Hikers, bikers, kayakers, and outdoor enthusiasts often take advantage of the area's natural beauty, beaches, and trail systems. Central Whidbey is home to two state parks (Fort Ebey & Fort Casey) as well as Ebey's Landing National Historic Reserve.

In addition to the historic and waterfront aesthetic, the island enjoys a robust arts community; both performing and visual. The Coupeville farmers market is a popular stop for locals and tourists alike. Those visiting Coupeville will find small boutique shops, family farms, incredible restaurants, wineries, and numerous festivals that can be enjoyed all throughout the year.

Whidbey Health Hospital, Island County, and Coupeville School District are the largest employers in Central Whidbey. 10 miles north, you will find the city of Oak Harbor and Naval Air Station Whidbey Island.

Coupeville is a small town with wonderful people and a quaint charm, offering an exceptional quality of life for educational leaders who value community connection and natural beauty.

Unique Benefits of Leading at Coupeville

• Instructional Focus with Manageable Size: Lead meaningful instructional improvement in a school where you can know every teacher and student personally. Our size enables you to be truly hands-on with curriculum, instruction, and assessment.
   
• Culture-Building Opportunity: Shape and strengthen a positive school culture in a community that deeply values education and supports its schools.
   
• Community-Embedded Leadership: As a principal in Coupeville, you'll be recognized throughout the community and have the opportunity to make a visible impact beyond the school walls.
   
• Small-School Impact with Big Opportunities: Our size means you'll know every student by name while still leading innovative programs that rival much larger districts.
   
• Supportive Professional Environment: Work with dedicated educators in a collaborative atmosphere where your leadership will be valued and respected.
   
• Ocean-Side Innovation: Create learning experiences that take advantage of our unique island setting, from environmental science to community partnerships.
   
• Quality of Life: Experience the rare combination of professional challenge and personal fulfillment in one of Washington's most beautiful communities.
   

Compensation and Terms of Employment

The contract term is from July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027. Salary range $167,272 - $197,278 commensurate with experience and qualifications. Coupeville School District offers an excellent benefits package.

Application Requirements

1. Cover Letter (addressing qualifications)
2. Resume
3. Three current letters of recommendation
4. Copy of administrative credentials
5. Completed District Application Form

Application Timeline

• Application Deadline: Open Until Filled
• Position Begins: July 1, 2026

Application Procedure

Apply online at https://www.coupeville.k12.wa.us/departments/human-resources/employment-opportunities

Candidates of Diversity Are Strongly Encouraged to Apply

Coupeville School District welcomes, values and promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion in its workforce. Candidates from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. This is in alignment with our CSD Equity Commitment Statement: "Whether about race, religion, language, immigration status, culture, sexual orientation, gender identity, class, or ability, or a combination of these, we know that students deserve to be honored and respected for who they are. Coupeville Schools is committed to providing a safe, equitable, and inclusive working and learning community for all."

Coupeville School District does not discriminate in any programs or activities on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups.

Disclaimer: This description indicates the general nature and essential duties and responsibilities of work to be performed by someone in this position. It does not contain a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees to do this job.

 

Coupeville School District does not discriminate in any programs or activities on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups.  The board designates the superintendent to serve as the district's coordinator regarding: Title IX; Section 504/ADA; Civil Rights Compliance and to handle questions and investigate any complaints communicated to the district of alleged discrimination. Superintendent, 501 S Main, Coupeville, WA, 98239, phone: 360.678.2404.