Principal, Inter-American Dual Language Magnet School

Principal, Inter-American Dual Language Magnet School

Posted: December 10, 2008
Closes: January 9, 2009
Annual Salary: MIN: $114,149.79 – MAX: $136,795.27

Outstanding principal sought for Inter-American Magnet School (IAMS), which has been a leader in successful multilingual, multicultural education for over three decades. IAMS is the nation’s second oldest dual language program (also known as Two Way Immersion). One of few public schools to be founded by parents, this Chicago Public School servers over 650 ethnically and economically diverse students in preschool through 8th grade from all over Chicago.

Inter-American Magnet School seeks to promote academic excellence through dual language and multicultural education. All students, including those with special needs, attain proficiency levels in Spanish, English, mathematics, science and other fields of study that will enable them to compete and excel in community, academic and professional settings. Our students gain an awareness and appreciation for diverse cultures that greatly enriches not just their time here, but their lives in general.

This exceptional learning community has a gifted and dedicated faculty, involved parents and a commitment to dual language education, social justice, ecology and a curriculum focused on the peoples of the Americas. Collaborative parents, students and staff are devoted to maintaining both high academic standards and a nurturing and inclusive environment.

The history of Inter-American is rich with inspiration, success and achievement. Its involvement of parents and staff in its founding, growth and governance helped inspire the creation of Local School Councils system-wide. It has maintained diversity and academic excellence in a culturally competent, nurturing and safe environment. At Inter-American, whether parent, educator, administrator, or student, we all feel fortunate to be part of such a warm, excellent, ground-breaking and special school. It is an experience that enriches not just our children, but ourselves.

Recommended Credentials and Developed Skills include:
·  Demonstrated innovative and effective instructional leadership
·  Understanding of and dedication to dual-language education
·  Minimum 5 years teaching experience in early childhood, elementary and/or middle school
·  History of proven administrative experience, expertise and efficacy in early childhood, elementary and/or middle school (3+ years or equivalent)
·   Ability to read, write and speak Spanish and English fluently
·   In-depth cross-cultural experience, and the ability to relate that experience to educational philosophy, cultural awareness, increased problem-solving skills and school community-building
·   Facilitative decision-making philosophy of leadership that empowers teachers and engages and increases parental involvement
·    Ability to develop and effectuate a vision among all stakeholders that fosters professional development of the staff, maximizes the student’s academic and cultural experience at the school and brings faculty, parents and administration together in an effective way.
·    The ability to identify and effectuate new key initiatives, programs, and processes
·    Knowledge and experience with planning, developing and implementing the school budget process and SIPPAA (School Improvement Plan for Advancing Academic Achievement)
·    Expertise in grant-writing and fundraising to support school programs
·    Knowledge, understanding and experience in the creation of the student environment, including support, safety and discipline.
·    A commitment to maximize academic outcomes and create an open, respectful, and inclusive child-centered environment for children with special needs, their educators and their parents.
·    Excellent public-relations skills, along with a commitment to build the school’s profile in the community, with key stakeholders and within CPS (Chicago Public Schools) and the greater Illinois educational community.
·     Proven ability and commitment to supporting innovative and effective teacher instruction in the classroom, through professional development support, resource-building, communication, evaluation and action
·    Ability to identify barriers to key goals and formulate and effectuate professional, effective and forward-thinking solutions that take into account the school’s history, unique community and commitment to the highest academic achievement for its students.

Job Requirements
Education, Training and experience
This is a four-year performance contract. In addition to the qualifications described under the Principal’s Position Information, applicants must be eligible for a CPS (Chicago Public Schools) principalship under Board policy #04-0225-PO1 “Requirements for the Selection of Chicago Public School Principals.” For more information, contact the Principal Review Board Office at 773-553-1454.

Interested candidates should submit resume and cover letter detailing why you want to lead Inter-American School to EACH of the three addresses below:

1. Karen Barbour, Local School Council Principal Selection Committee Chairperson, c/o Inter-American Magnet School, 851 West Waveland Chicago, IL 60613
2. Karen Barbour, 2132 W Morse Ave. Chicago, IL 60645
3. Resume Intake Mailbox, Department of Human Resources, 125 South Clark Street, Chicago IL 60603 (or GSR #125)