We invite you to reignite your passion for education in an unbelievably unique setting located in the heart of West Knoxville. Imagine what life would be like without endless meetings where you are able to work creatively with teachers again. Imagine outdoor classrooms, a teaching garden, and the freedom to develop new curriculum. Imagine encouraging students to say the pledge of allegiance and share prayers daily. Imagine a school that is truly a melting pot filled with multiple faiths, yet true to its’ faith-based heritage. If you are looking to enjoy your educational journey again, Tate’s is the place.
We are seeking a dynamic and experienced principal to manage the overall academic program for the 26-27 school year, although the right candidate is welcome to start during the current school year. This leadership role requires strategic vision, strong management skills, and a passion for education and student development. Our current principal has been with us for 12 years and will be relocating to Texas to be with family. We have had only four principals since the school was founded in 1968. The principal serves as the educational leader, responsible for managing the policies and procedures related to growth and achievement for students and instructors. The principal ensures the academic culture of the school reflects our mission and best practices in education. The principal is responsible for staff supervision, instructional and extra-curricular programs, discipline, student safety, curriculum supplies and equipment, and student data reporting. The principal works closely with admissions, the preschool director, director of resources, board members, and reports to the Director.
We believe that learning should be a meaningful and fun experience for every child. Hands-on education is at the core of everything we do. At Tate’s, academically capable students are challenged by the variety and depth of curriculum offered. We believe the learning environment matters and emboldens students to take educational risks in an accelerated curriculum. We believe that curriculum should be tailored to each student and quality educators make all the difference. We help ground our students and develop their character using unchanging truths and principles that have served our school for over 50 years. We are known for our academic excellence, innovation, outdoor education, and outstanding educators.
Tate’s School is a private, independent school founded in 1968 that serves approximately 250 students. Located on 54 wooded acres in West Knoxville, Tate’s is family owned and operated and features unique, rustic classrooms. Tate’s School’s mission is to nurture and work with children in preschool – eighth grade to promote academic excellence, assist in their intellectual development, and mentor them in their moral evolution to become successful, productive, vibrant, accountable young men and women of sound character and reputation.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s Degree in Education
- Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership, Administration or related field
- A minimum of 3 years as a principal or assistant principal
- Current Tennessee Certification ILL- A or ILL- B required (licensures from other states will be considered)
- 3-5 years teaching experience as a successful lead classroom teacher required
- Proven success in mentoring and developing faculty members
- Warm demeanor with strong relational, organizational, and leadership skills
- Excellent written and oral communications skills
- Ability to inspire and motivate, faculty, staff, and students
Essential Responsibilities:
Instructional Leadership
- Develop and support implementation of curriculum, instruction, and assessment strategies
- Provide leadership and supervision of interactions, activities, and materials appropriate for the social, emotional, physical, and intellectual development of children
- Maintain a rigorous academic program, curriculum, and exceptional teaching staff
- Make recommendations to the Director regarding contract renewals and staffing needs
- Oversee and assist staff in administering, planning, and evaluating activities and lesson plans that promote developmentally appropriate learning
Operational Leadership
- Plan and implement motivational teacher orientation and professional development initiatives
- Develop and implement school policies, procedures, and programs
- Establish annual school calendar
- Oversee planning, coordination, and execution of field trips and club travel
- Provide support to the athletic director and athletic program
- Assign teacher and parent mentors annually
- Plan and implement special events
- Provide continual outgoing communications to parents, staff, and students
- Complete formal observations for instructors including outdoor education initiatives
- Collaborate with teachers to increase student outcomes
- Serve as a member of the Executive Management Team
Student Support
- Implement and oversee the student support programs
- Oversee the discipline/ behavior of students
- Schedule and oversee Parent/Teacher Conferences
- Encourage an environment where students feel safe and engaged
- Direct and coordinate the state testing requirements for students; Assess results with teachers
Administrative
- Assure compliance with Tennessee Department of Education and Department of Health requirements
- Serve on the admissions committee and test/review student applicants
- Supervise the management of student records and report cards
- Build and create the master class schedule for all grade levels
- Plan and implement annual health and safety procedures
- Supervise the ordering and receipt of all curriculum, supplies, and classroom budgets
Parent & Community Engagement
- Build strong relationships and communicate effectively with all stakeholders
- Engage parents and field questions regarding daily operations, procedures, and policies
- Partner homeroom parent leaders and train on applicable policies
Skills & Abilities
- Ability to work collaboratively with all stakeholders
- Provide clear feedback to faculty in a timely manner
- Proficient computer and technology skills; prior use of FACTS SIS is a plus
- Review and Analyze data to support teachers and students
- Engage faculty, families, and students in honest conversation to support student growth
Benefits & Compensation
- Salary with adjustment for experience
- Health Insurance & 401K
- Balanced work schedule with Paid Time Off
Timeline
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. The right candidate is welcome to work alongside the outgoing principal for the remainder of the 2025-26 school year. Qualified Candidates are encouraged to apply online at Indeed.com or submit a cover letter and resume along with 5 professional references to [email protected]
