Job Description:
Assistant Principal – Junior High School 2026-2027 school year
Apache Junction Unified School District
Full-Time, Exempt | 230-Day Contract
Salary Starting at $64,000+ (DOE)
Reports to: Junior High School Principal
Lead With Purpose. Serve With Heart. Put Kids First.
Apache Junction Unified School District is seeking an inspiring, student-centered Junior High School Assistant Principal who believes deeply in our Kids First mission. We are looking for a leader who cares about students, families, staff, and the broader AJ community—and who understands that strong relationships are the foundation of a thriving school.
This is an opportunity to join a leadership team committed to innovation, equity, and excellence. If you are a collaborative problem solver with strong judgment, emotional intelligence, and a passion for helping students succeed, we want to meet you.
What You'll Lead and Support
• Champion AJUSD's Kids First mission through every decision, action, and interaction.
• Partner with the High School Principal to cultivate a safe, inclusive,
and high-performing school culture.
• Build strong relationships with students, staff, families, and community partners.
• Lead student support systems including attendance, discipline, and campus safety
with fairness, consistency, and restorative practices.
• Support instructional excellence by supervising and evaluating staff, providing coaching,
and promoting high-quality teaching.
• Recruit, hire, train, and develop employees; provide clear feedback and accountability.
• Use data, technology, and AI-supported tools to improve systems, communication,
and decision-making.
• Manage budgets and resources connected to assigned areas of responsibility.
• Ensure compliance with district policies, state regulations, and legal requirements.
• Serve as a visible, accessible leader who supports students and staff throughout the
school day.
• Oversee the Junior High Athletics program, including hiring, supervising, and evaluating
coaches while ensuring compliance with district expectations and student eligibility
requirements.
• Supervise athletic events and activities to promote safe, well-organized programs that
support student growth, sportsmanship, and academic success.
• Take on additional leadership responsibilities as assigned to support school operations
and student success.
What You Bring
• Master's Degree in Education from an accredited institution
• Valid Arizona Principal Certificate (ADE)
• Experience supervising and evaluating classroom instruction
• Strong understanding of high school curriculum, special education, and Arizona education law
• Experience with student discipline, restorative practices, and equitable decision-making
• Ability to build trust, navigate conflict, and maintain positive relationships
• Emotional intelligence, resilience, and calm leadership under pressure
• Strong judgment and the ability to make thoughtful, student-centered decisions
• Innovative thinking, including comfort with technology and emerging AI tools
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and maintain confidentiality
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional growth
Leadership Competencies
• Communicates with clarity, empathy, and professionalism
• Models flexibility, adaptability, and a growth mindset
• Demonstrates strong problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills
• Responds promptly and respectfully to staff, students, and families
• Maintains cooperative, positive working relationships
• Uses feedback constructively to strengthen systems and outcomes
• Serves as a visible, accessible, and supportive leader on campus
Physical & Work Environment Expectations
This role requires regular communication, movement around campus, and the ability to stand, walk, bend, sit, and occasionally lift up to 30 pounds. The work environment is active and fast-paced, with moderate noise levels. Reasonable accommodations will be provided as needed.
Our Commitment to Equity
Apache Junction Unified School District does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation), or disability in its employment practices.
ADA Statement
AJUSD is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in all aspects of employment, including the application process, hiring, job duties, and access to benefits and training. If you require an accommodation to perform the essential functions of this position or to participate in the hiring process, please contact the Human Resources Department.
Join a Leadership Team That Puts Kids First
If you are passionate about student success, committed to community partnership, and ready to lead with heart, innovation, and integrity, we invite you to apply and help shape the future of AJUSD.
Professional Growth & Leadership Development
We invest in our leaders through:
Comprehensive Benefits Package
AJUSD offers a competitive, supportive benefits package that includes:
A Place Where You Make a Difference
Your leadership will directly impact students, families, and the future of our community. This is meaningful work with real purpose.