School Principal

School Principal – Whitney Hall School

Lead a School Where Every Student Can Thrive

The Children's Center of Hamden is seeking a dedicated and experienced School Principal to lead Whitney Hall School, a therapeutic educational program serving students with complex social, emotional, and behavioral needs. In this role, you will oversee all aspects of school operations, instruction, and staff development while ensuring a safe, structured, and inclusive learning environment.

As Principal, you will work closely with educators, clinical staff, families, and leadership to drive student success, support staff growth, and ensure high-quality, compliant programming that meets the needs of every learner.

Why Join Us?

At The Children's Center of Hamden, you'll be part of a collaborative, mission-driven team dedicated to helping students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Supportive School Environment – Lead a program designed for individualized student support and meaningful relationship-building.

Meaningful Leadership Impact – Shape instructional practices, school culture, and student outcomes every day.

Collaborative Treatment Team – Partner closely with teachers, clinicians, and program leadership so you're never working in a silo. Retirement & Long-Term Security – Access to a 403(b) retirement plan, Social Security benefits, and Teacher's Retirement eligibility where applicable.

Comprehensive Benefits – Medical, dental, vision, life, disability, EAP, and wellness programs. On one of our medical plan options, The Children's Center covers 90% of the employee premium and contributes to Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), making quality healthcare affordable and accessible.

Generous Paid Time Off – Sick, personal time, and school breaks so you can recharge and maintain balance.

Supportive, Mission-Driven Culture – Be part of a school community dedicated to student success and teacher well-being.

What You'll Do

As School Principal, you will:

• Provide leadership and direction for all school-based programming, ensuring high-quality instruction and student achievement
• Supervise and support teachers, paraprofessionals, and administrative staff to promote accountability and professional growth
• Lead curriculum development and instructional alignment with Connecticut state standards
• Implement educator evaluation systems, including SEED, and conduct staff evaluations
• Design and deliver professional development to support instructional excellence
• Oversee implementation of the Behavioral Management Plan in collaboration with clinical staff
• Collaborate with clinical teams to support student treatment planning and behavioral interventions
• Manage student referrals and maintain accurate student census and placement processes
• Coordinate state-mandated assessments and ensure compliance with all requirements
• Oversee student data systems, including CT SEDS, to ensure accuracy and compliance
• Develop and manage the school's master schedule
• Oversee daily school operations, including arrival, transitions, and dismissal procedures
• Facilitate team meetings, including IST and grade-level collaboration meetings
• Partner with PRTF and Day School staff to ensure smooth student enrollment and transitions
• Build strong relationships with families and community partners
• Lead the review and implementation of school policies and the Student Handbook
• Support recruitment, onboarding, and performance management of staff
• Participate in IEP, PPT, and 504 meetings as needed
• Ensure a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment for all students
• Perform other duties as assigned to support program success

What We're Looking For

• CT Certification in Intermediate Administration or Supervision (Endorsement #092) and
• Holds Special Education Certification (165) with the Connecticut Department of Education
• Background in special education strongly preferred
• Proven ability to lead, implement, and evaluate educational programming
• Strong knowledge of state and federal special education regulations
• Demonstrated leadership, communication, and organizational skills
• Ability to collaborate across multidisciplinary teams and external partners

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

• Ability to perform light to moderate lifting, standing, walking, bending, and other physical tasks as needed
• Potential exposure to bodily fluids and other environmental hazards in a school-based setting

Join Our Team

If you are a passionate educational leader committed to supporting students and building a strong school community, we encourage you to apply and make a meaningful impact at Whitney Hall School.

The Children's Center of Hamden is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.