Job Description:

ssistant Principal – High School   Beginning 2026-2027 School Year

Apache Junction Unified School District (AJUSD)
Full-Time, Exempt | 230-Day Contract
Salary Starting at $64,000+ (DOE)
Reports To: High School Principal
Work Calendar: 7/6/2026 - 6/18/2027

Lead With Purpose. Serve With Heart. Put Kids First.

Apache Junction Unified School District is seeking a compassionate, innovative, and student-centered High School Assistant Principal who believes deeply in our Kids First mission. We are looking for a leader who cares about students, values community partnership, and understands that strong relationships are the foundation of a thriving school.

This role is ideal for someone who brings emotional intelligence, resilience, strong judgment, and a commitment to building a positive school culture. The Assistant Principal will partner with the High School Principal to support instructional excellence, student success, and a safe, inclusive campus environment.

Position Summary

The High School Assistant Principal supports the Principal in leading a safe, inclusive, and high-performing school environment grounded in AJUSD's Kids First mission. This role requires a student-centered, relationship-driven leader who partners with staff, families, and the community to ensure every student is supported academically, socially, and emotionally.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Instructional & School Leadership

• Promote and uphold AJUSD's Kids First mission in all decisions and interactions.
• Partner with the Principal to cultivate a positive, inclusive, and academically rigorous school culture.
• Support instructional excellence through classroom observations, coaching, and staff evaluations.
• Lead professional development aligned to school goals and instructional best practices.

Student Support & Campus Culture

• Oversee student attendance, discipline, and restorative practices with fairness and consistency.
• Ensure due process and equitable discipline aligned with district expectations.
• Build strong relationships with students and maintain high visibility on campus.
• Support a safe, orderly, and welcoming school environment.

Staff Supervision & Development

• Recruit, hire, train, and develop staff; provide coaching, feedback, and accountability.
• Address concerns, resolve conflicts, and maintain strong professional relationships.
• Support staff growth through mentoring, collaboration, and clear communication.

Operations & Compliance

• Use data, technology, and AI-supported tools to improve communication and decision-making.
• Manage budgets and resources connected to assigned areas of responsibility.
• Ensure compliance with district policies, state regulations, and legal requirements.
• Assist with general school administration and perform additional duties as assigned.

Other duties as assigned. 

Required Qualifications

• Master's Degree in Education
• Valid Arizona Principal Certificate (ADE)
• Valid IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card
• Experience supervising and evaluating classroom instruction
• Knowledge of high school curriculum, special education, and Arizona education law
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound professional judgment
• Proficiency with technology and standard educational/office software
• Comfort using or learning AI-supported tools for efficiency and problem-solving
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and remain calm under pressure

Leadership Qualities We Value

• Deep care for students, families, and the community
• Emotional intelligence and resilience
• Strong judgment and ethical decision-making
• Ability to navigate conflict with professionalism and empathy
• Innovative thinking and openness to new tools and strategies
• Commitment to equity, inclusion, and restorative practices
• Relationship-building that strengthens trust and collaboration

Physical Requirements

This position requires regular movement around campus, communication with students and staff, and occasional lifting to 30 pounds. Reasonable accommodation will be provided as needed.

Work Environment

The work environment is active, fast-paced, and student-centered. Noise levels are typically moderate. Duties may require outdoor supervision and occasional travel.

ADA Statement

Apache Junction Unified School District is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the district will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities to ensure equal access to employment opportunities, essential job functions, and the benefits and privileges of employment. Individuals who require accommodation during the application or hiring process, or who need assistance to perform the essential functions of a position, are encouraged to contact Human Resources.

Non-Discrimination Statement

Apache Junction Unified School District does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation or gender identity), or disability in its employment practices.

Why Work for AJUSD?

 A Community That Feels Like Family

Our schools are the heart of Apache Junction. You'll join a team that supports one another, celebrates success, and works together to make a difference for every student.

 A Mission That Matters

Our Kids First philosophy guides every decision. You will be part of a leadership team that puts students at the center of everything we do.

A Team You'll Be Proud to Lead With

You'll collaborate with passionate educators, supportive administrators, and a district leadership team committed to innovation, equity, and excellence.

 Professional Growth & Leadership Development

We invest in our leaders through:

• Ongoing professional development
• Leadership coaching
• Opportunities to innovate and pilot new ideas
• Access to emerging tools, including AI-supported systems

 Comprehensive Benefits Package

AJUSD offers a competitive, supportive benefits package that includes:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Life insurance
• Short-Term Disability
• Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS) participation
• 403(b) retirement savings options
• Employee Assistance Program
• Paid leave benefits
• Wellness supports

 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.

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.