Job Description:

High School Principal at Tucson High Magnet School

Tucson High Magnet School, the oldest high school in the Tucson Unified School District, stands as a beacon of academic excellence and historical significance. Located near the University of Arizona, the school offers students unique opportunities for collaboration with university professors and hands-on learning experiences, particularly in science programs. Its magnet programs focus on natural sciences and visual and performing arts, complemented by career and technical education in fields such as welding, auto mechanics, and digital media. Known as the Badgers, the school proudly showcases its rich heritage and strong community ties, with alumni enthusiastically supporting its traditions and success.

Beyond academics, Tucson High Magnet fosters a vibrant student life, featuring interscholastic sports, a wide array of clubs, and a culture of inclusivity. The campus buzzes with school spirit, reflected in its signature red and white colors. The school celebrates achievements such as students earning prestigious scholarships, underscoring its commitment to preparing learners for future endeavors. With its blend of tradition, innovation, and a supportive community, Tucson High offers a compelling environment for both students and staff to thrive.

• Mascot: Badgers.
• Student Population: Approximately 2,900 students, making it one of the larger high schools in the area.
• Faculty and Staff: It boasts a diverse and dedicated team, with a student-to-teacher ratio of 20:1, slightly above the state average of 17:1.
• Historical Significance: Founded in 1906, Tucson High Magnet School is one of the oldest schools in Arizona, with a legacy of academic and cultural contributions to the Tucson community. Its long-standing tradition of excellence is reflected in its rich alumni network and ongoing community involvement.
• Diversity: The student body is predominantly Hispanic (70%), reflecting the vibrant cultural tapestry of Tucson. Other demographic groups include White (15%), African American (6%), Native American (4%), and others.
• Academic Performance: The school has an 87% graduation rate, which is significantly higher than the Arizona state average of 77%.
• Programs and Achievements: As a magnet school, it offers specialized programs that attract students interested in particular fields of study or creative arts.

ABOUT TUCSON UNIFIED

As Southern Arizona's largest school district, Tucson Unified School District provides its team with cutting-edge educational training and support programs.

MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of the Tucson Unified School District, in partnership with parents and the greater community, is to assure each pre-K through 12th-grade student receives an engaging, rigorous, and comprehensive education.

The District is committed to inclusion and non-discrimination in all District activities. At all times, District staff should work to ensure that staff, parents, students, and members of the public are included and welcome to participate in District activities.

POSITION SUMMARY

Principals in the Tucson Unified School District serve as the instructional and operational leaders of a district school and lead all stakeholders in fulfilling the collective mission and vision of the school, promote a culture of student success through high expectations, collaborative relationships and ensure that the learning environment is inclusive and equitable.

REPORTS TO Assistant Superintendent

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Master's Degree in Educational Administration, Educational Leadership, or closely related field
• Valid Arizona IVP fingerprint clearance card
• Current Arizona Principal Certificate
• Two years of experience as a school Administrator (Principal or Assistant Principal)

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS Consideration will be given to applicants who explicitly confirm possession of the following preferred qualifications in their resume or application:

• Bilingual, fluent in speaking, reading, and writing English/Spanish
• Five years’ experience as a school Principal
• Certified Evaluator in the Danielson Framework of Teaching
• 1 year experience administering Special Education programs
• 1 year experience administering Language Acquisition programs
• 1 year experience administering tiered systems of student behavioral and academic interventions
• 1 year experience as an Administrator of a Title 1 school

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS AFTER HIRE

Proof of immunity to rubeola (measles) and rubella (German measles), or proof of MMR immunization

POSITION SPECIFICS

• APPLICATION REQUIRED ON TUSD WEBSITE: JOB REF #5437178
• SALARY RANGE: Commensurate with the successful candidate's experience, qualifications, and industry standards
• EFFECTIVE: 2026-2027 School Year
• LOCATION: Tucson High Magnet School - Euclid & 6th Area
• FTE: 1.0 - 8 hours per day
• START DATE: July 1, 2026
• WORK CALENDAR: 12 months

First Review of Applications will begin on December 12, 2025.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON THE ADMINISTRATIVE HIRING PROCESS:

1. Upon submission of a successfully completed application meeting the minimum requirements, your experience will be thoroughly reviewed and ranked by preferred qualifications.
2. After ranking is completed, successful candidates will be matched with prospective schools and invited to School Council interviews.
3. At the conclusion of the School Council interviews, two candidates will be forwarded to interview with the Superintendent’s leadership team who will make final recommendations to the TUSD Governing Board for appointment.

Employment for the 2026-2027 School Year begins for Principals on July 1, 2026.

Internal candidates will transfer at a rate commensurate with their bargaining unit language. For more information on the salary schedule, please reference the Employee Agreements Webpage.

Tucson Unified School District is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination based on disability, race, color, religion/religious beliefs, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, or national origin.