The Queen City Difference

At Queen City Academy Charter School (QCACS), we expect academic excellence, strong character, and a commitment to growth from every student. Our leaders cultivate a learning environment where students are challenged to meet high expectations and are supported with the structures and relationships necessary to succeed.

QCACS is a small K–12 school community where educators collaborate closely, families are active partners, and students are known as individuals. The high school currently serves approximately 160 students and is growing to serve 288, with opportunities for students to participate in dual college enrollment.

Our school culture balances warmth with rigor: a family-like atmosphere paired with high academic standards and accountability. Faculty and staff work together to ensure students are prepared for college, career, and meaningful participation in their communities.

The Position

The High School Principal is the instructional and culture leader of the high school program. The principal leads with a systems-thinking mindset, ensuring that the structures, practices, and expectations of the school work together to produce strong academic outcomes and a positive student culture.

The principal is responsible for building and sustaining systems that support high-quality instruction, strong student accountability, and continuous improvement across the school. The successful candidate is a disciplined implementer who translates vision into consistent practice and holds students and adults to high expectations.

This leader understands that excellent schools are built through thoughtful systems, strong relationships, and relentless focus on student outcomes. They sweat the big and small things. 

Leadership Responsibilities

The High School Principal leads the implementation and continuous improvement of instructional and cultural systems that support student success. Key responsibilities include:

Instructional Leadership

• Establish and maintain a rigorous academic program aligned with the school’s mission and standards
• Lead teachers in delivering high-quality instruction and ensuring consistent expectations for student learning
• Observe classrooms regularly and provide clear, actionable feedback to teachers
• Use student achievement data to guide instructional decisions and support teacher growth
• Ensure strong implementation of curriculum and instructional strategies across classrooms

Systems and Continuous Improvement

• Develop and manage systems that ensure consistency, accountability, and operational clarity across the high school
• Use qualitative and quantitative data to identify areas for improvement and drive school-wide progress
• Lead cycles of reflection, planning, and improvement with faculty and leadership teams
• Monitor progress toward academic goals and ensure timely adjustments to strategies and supports

Student Culture and Accountability

• Maintain high expectations for student behavior, effort, and academic responsibility
• Establish clear systems for discipline, attendance, and student support
• Ensure that students understand and meet the school’s expectations for academic and personal conduct
• Foster a school culture where students are known, challenged, and supported

Staff Leadership and Development

• Recruit, hire, and retain talented educators who are committed to the school’s mission
• Lead professional learning communities that promote collaboration and instructional excellence
• Provide regular coaching and feedback that supports continuous professional growth
• Build a faculty culture grounded in shared accountability, reflection, and improvement

Family and Community Engagement

• Build authentic relationships with families and ensure open, proactive communication
• Engage families as partners in supporting student achievement and well-being
• Represent the school in the broader community and strengthen partnerships that benefit students

Diverse Learning Community

QCACS is committed to building a diverse, equitable, and inclusive learning community. Staff are expected to demonstrate cultural awareness and a commitment to ensuring all students feel valued, respected, and supported.

We seek educators who understand the importance of inclusive practices and who actively work to create learning environments that honor the diverse experiences and perspectives of students and families.

Queen City Academy Charter School is an equal opportunity employer.

Qualifications

Ideal candidates will have most of the following qualifications:

• NJDOE Professional Certificate with an endorsement as Principal or Supervisor
• At least eight years of teaching experience with additional school-based leadership or administrative experience
• Demonstrated success improving student outcomes through strong instructional leadership
• Experience building and managing systems that support effective school operations and instructional consistency
• Proven ability to use data to drive school improvement and instructional decision-making
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills
• Experience working with diverse student populations
• Proficiency in Spanish or another language is preferred

Compensation

QCACS offers a competitive salary and benefits package. The salary range for this position is $100,000 – $130,000, depending on experience and qualifications.

About Us

Queen City Academy Charter School is Plainfield’s first charter school, serving students in grades K–12. Our mission is to create lifelong learners and transform lives by developing critical thinkers and leaders who drive generational success.