Anticipated Elementary School Principal

Tenafly Public Schools
Tenafly, New Jersey
Full Time

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Anticipated Elementary School Principal JobID: 1757

Position Type:

Administration/Elementary Principal

Date Posted:

5/28/2026

Location:

Smith Elementary School

Date Available:

07/01/2026

Closing Date:

06/07/2026

Additional Information: Show/Hide

The following posting is available for the 2026-2027 school year:

Smith School

Anticipated Elementary School Principal

START DATE: July 1, 2026

Tenafly Public Schools seeks an exceptional educational leader to serve as Principal of one of our elementary schools beginning in the 20262027 school year. We are searching for a visionary, student-centered instructional leader who is deeply committed to elementary education and excited by the opportunity to help shape the future of teaching and learning in a high-performing, intellectually vibrant school community.

This position is ideal for a highly accomplished educator who believes elementary schools should be places of curiosity, innovation, belonging, rigor, creativity, and joy.

The successful candidate will possess a sophisticated understanding of contemporary elementary instruction and child development while demonstrating the leadership capacity to inspire talented educators, cultivate meaningful relationships, and advance a culture of continuous growth and excellence.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Valid New Jersey Principal Certificate or eligibility required
Demonstrated success as an educational leader
Significant elementary teaching experience 10+ years strongly preferred
Experience supervising and evaluating staff preferred
Strong knowledge of elementary curriculum, instruction, and school operations
Master's degree required; advanced graduate study preferred

ABOUT THE ROLE:

The next principal will inherit a strong school community with dedicated educators, engaged families, and high-achieving students. We are seeking a leader who can thoughtfully build upon that foundation while helping lead the next generation of elementary learning.

We are particularly interested in candidates who:

Believe deeply in the power of relationships and community
Understand how to balance academic rigor with student wellness and belonging
Have experience coaching and developing high-performing teachers
Are intellectually curious and forward-thinking
Embrace innovation while honoring strong instructional fundamentals
Understand how technology and AI can thoughtfully support teaching and learning
Lead with humility, visibility, empathy, and high expectations
Value collaboration, creativity, and shared leadership
Are energized by the complexity and joy of elementary education

WHO YOU ARE:

Exceptional instructional leadership in literacy, mathematics, and student-centered learning
A strong understanding of curriculum, assessment, and differentiated instruction
Experience supporting inclusive practices and diverse learner needs
The ability to foster a positive, connected, and student-focused school culture
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Data-informed decision making balanced with strong emotional intelligence
The ability to inspire trust, build teams, and cultivate leadership capacity in others
A commitment to continuous professional learning and innovation
Visible enthusiasm for working with elementary-aged students and families

BENEFITS:

Full-time employees are eligible for medical, prescription, and dental benefits
Sick, personal, family illness, vacation, and bereavement day allotments are included

SALARY: $140,000 - 160,000

The salary range reflects the anticipated base compensation for this position. Final salary placement will be determined based on the selected candidate's relevant education, years of experience, and alignment with the District's negotiated salary guide and placement practices.

WHY TENAFLY?

Tenafly Public Schools is a nationally ranked, high-achieving PK12 district committed to academic excellence, innovation, and whole-child development. Our schools are recognized for strong student outcomes, engaged families, outstanding educators, and a collaborative professional culture that values both excellence and humanity.

This is an opportunity to join a district that values thoughtful leadership, supports professional growth, and believes deeply in the transformative power of public education.