Associate Principal - DeKalb High School

DeKalb High School is seeking a dynamic, student-centered Associate Principal who is committed to building a positive school culture, fostering strong relationships, and leading with purpose. This role is integral to shaping the school's climate, enhancing the student experience, and supporting staff through strong instructional leadership.

The Associate Principal serves as a key member of the building leadership team, collaborating with students, staff, and the community to advance the mission and vision of DeKalb High School.

Role Responsibilities

Culture, Climate, & Student Experience

• Lead and model a positive, student-centered school culture grounded in relationships, respect, and high expectations.
• Develop and implement systems that promote student belonging, engagement, and accountability.
• Oversee student behavior, attendance, and discipline with a focus on consistency, growth, and restorative practices.
• Maintain a visible and active presence throughout the school to build meaningful relationships.
• Support and enhance student involvement in extracurricular and co-curricular programs.
• Provide supervision and administrative oversight at school events and activities to ensure a safe, positive environment.

Instructional & Staff Leadership

• Support the development and implementation of instructional programs and school improvement initiatives.
• Assist in the supervision and evaluation of certified and classified staff.
• Promote professional growth through coaching, feedback, and collaboration.
• Partner with staff to strengthen classroom management and student engagement practices.

Operations & School Management

• Assist in coordinating daily school operations, including supervision, safety, and campus management.
• Support budget development and resource allocation aligned with school priorities.
• Collaborate with extracurricular and co-curricular sponsors, directors, and coaches, in alignment with the Athletic Director, to support student eligibility and participation.
• Serve as a liaison with students, staff, families, community organizations, and public service agencies.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Strong understanding of secondary school leadership, curriculum, and instructional practices.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to analyze complex situations and implement practical, student-centered solutions.
• Demonstrated ability to foster a collaborative and positive school environment.
• Skill in building and sustaining strong relationships with students, staff, families, and the community.

The Associate Principal works under the direction of the Principal of DeKalb High School, who may assign or adjust responsibilities as needed. This position is a 220 day contract.

Required and Preferred Qualifications

• Valid Indiana Administrator License.
• Minimum of 2-4 years of secondary administrative experience, with a strong desire to serve as a building leader (Assistant Principal or Principal experience preferred).
• Demonstrated experience in student management, school operations, instructional leadership, and staff supervision.
• Proven ability to build and sustain a positive school culture and climate.
• Strong leadership presence with a commitment to relationship-building.
• Experience leading teams and supporting professional growth.
• Knowledge of high school systems, including attendance, discipline, activities, and instruction.
• Understanding and knowledge of diploma requirements, master scheduling, and curriculum design at the secondary level.
• Ability to use data to inform decisions and improve student outcomes.

Why DeKalb High School?

• Strong tradition of academic and extracurricular excellence.
• Supportive and collaborative staff culture.
• Commitment to continuous improvement and innovation.
• Opportunity to make a lasting impact on students and the school community.
• Focus on student-centered learning practices.
• We offer an annual benefit allocation.
• Generous retirement options.
• Supplemental Insurance offerings.
• Life Insurance.
• Long Term Disability.
• Generous vacation and leave time.
• Professional Development.
• Onsite Wellness Clinic.
• Discounted YMCA membership.
• Free entry to athletic and performing arts events.

Application Requirements


Applicants must submit the following:

• Completed application online at
• Letter of interest highlighting experience in teaching and/or administration at the high school level.
• Current resume.
• At least three (3) current letters of recommendation (within the last year).

Additional Prompt (Required):


Please include a brief response for each statement below:

• What is your approach to building a positive school culture?
• How do you support student behavior and accountability?
• How does you use your leadership style in a school and how you develop staff using that style as instructional leaders?
• Why you are interested in serving as Associate Principal at DeKalb High School?

Self-Assessment


Use the scale of 1-5, with 5 being the highest to rate these important leadership traits based upon what is important to you. Include a brief rationale aligned to your personal and professional core values.

• Communication
• Facilitation
• Team Player
• Student Management
• Relationships

Applications must be submitted online. All additional materials should be emailed to DHS Principal, Mr. Marcus Wagner (View email address on click.appcast.io) and Chief Human Resources Officer, Mrs. Melissa Helmsing (View email address on click.appcast.io).

DeKalb County Central United School District seeks to develop and nurture its diversity. We are committed to maintaining an inclusive community that recognizes and values the inherent worth and dignity of every person; fosters tolerance, sensitivity, understanding, and mutual respect. DeKalb County Central United School District is an EEO/AA employer fully committed to achieving a diverse workforce. All individuals, including minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and protected veterans are encouraged to apply.