Principal

SAN CARLOS UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 20
P.O. Box 207, San Carlos, AZ 85550
www.scbraves.net | (928) 475-2315

Mission

We exist to educate and empower students to become culturally grounded, globally prepared Nn'ee.

Vision

We are a student-centered learning community that develops culturally confident, academically successful, and community-connected citizens.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

San Carlos Unified School District is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals. Discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, or disability is prohibited in accordance with Governing Board Policy GBA.

In alignment with district values and community priorities, Native American Preference in Employment will be applied where applicable.

POSITION TITLE:

Principal – Rice Intermediate School

OPEN DATE:

4.17.2026-5.1.2026

POSITION SUMMARY

The Principal serves as the instructional and cultural leader of Rice Intermediate School, responsible for advancing student achievement while honoring and integrating the cultural values, language, and traditions of the San Carlos Apache community.

This position leads the development and implementation of a shared vision focused on academic excellence, cultural responsiveness, and whole-child development. The Principal ensures effective systems for teaching and learning, fosters a positive and inclusive school climate, and builds strong partnerships with families and the community.

JOB GOALS

• Establish and sustain a high-performing, culturally responsive learning environment where all students achieve academic success
• Lead with a focus on equity, access, and opportunity for students in a high-poverty Title I setting
• Promote the integration of Apache culture, language, and community values into the instructional program
• Ensure effective management of school operations, personnel, and resources aligned to district priorities 

QUALIFICATIONS

1. Master's Degree in Education or related field
2. Valid Arizona Principal Certification
3. Minimum of five (5) years of successful classroom teaching experience
4. Previous school leadership experience preferred
5. Experience working in rural, high-poverty, or Native American communities strongly preferred
6. Arizona Department of Education (ADE) Administrative Certification
7. Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered by the Governing Board 

REPORTS TO:

Superintendent

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Instructional Leadership & Student Achievement

• Serve as the instructional leader by developing and communicating a clear vision for student success grounded in equity, cultural relevance, and trauma-informed practices
• Lead continuous improvement efforts using data-driven decision-making to increase student achievement
• Establish and support Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) focused on analyzing student data, refining instructional practices, and improving student outcomes
• Support high-quality instruction through frequent classroom observations, coaching, and actionable feedback
• Ensure implementation of research-based instructional practices, culturally responsive teaching, and aligned curriculum 

Staff Leadership & Development

• Recruit, hire, develop, and retain high-quality staff committed to serving students in a Title I environment
• Foster a collaborative culture where staff engage in PLCs and shared accountability for student success
• Provide ongoing, job-embedded professional development, including training in trauma-informed practices, culturally responsive instruction, and effective PLC implementation
• Conduct staff evaluations aligned to district and state frameworks, providing support for continuous growth 

School Climate & Culture

• Build and sustain a safe, inclusive, and culturally affirming school environment that recognizes the impact of trauma on student learning and behavior
• Implement and support trauma-informed systems and practices, including social-emotional supports, restorative approaches, and positive behavior interventions
• Promote respect for Apache culture, traditions, and community values in all aspects of the school
• Develop systems that support student attendance, engagement, and overall well-being 

Family & Community Engagement

• Strengthen partnerships with families, tribal leadership, and community stakeholders through culturally responsive and relationship-centered practices
• Communicate effectively and consistently with parents regarding student progress and school initiatives
• Foster trust and collaboration between the school and the San Carlos community 

Operations & Resource Management

• Manage fiscal, human, and physical resources to support instructional priorities and student needs
• Ensure compliance with district, state, and federal regulations, including Title I program requirements
• Allocate resources strategically to support student intervention systems, mental health supports, and PLC structures
• Oversee school operations, safety, and facility management 

Additional Responsibilities

• Address student and staff concerns in a timely, professional, and trauma-informed manner
• Lead or support district initiatives as assigned
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Superintendent 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Demonstrated commitment to educational equity and the belief that all students can achieve
• Experience improving outcomes for Native American and low-income students
• Strong leadership in team building, conflict resolution, and organizational management
• Ability to integrate culturally responsive practices into instruction and school systems
• Knowledge and implementation of trauma-informed school practices
• Experience leading and sustaining Professional Learning Communities (PLCs)
• Skilled in strategic planning, data analysis, and problem-solving
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills
• Active listening and sound judgment in decision-making
• Ability to lead through challenges with resilience and adaptability 

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

Twelve (12) month contract

SALARY

Placed on the Governing Board Approved Administrative Salary Schedule based on education and experience

EVALUATION

Performance will be evaluated annually in accordance with Governing Board policy

APPLICATION PROCESS

Apply online at sancarlosbraves.org ? Employment ? Applitrack

For questions, please contact the Human Resources Department at (928) 475-2315, Ext. 1411