School Principal

Lead a School Where Every Student Can Thrive

The Children's Center of Hamden is seeking a dedicated and experienced School Principal to lead Whitney Hall School, a therapeutic educational program serving students with complex social, emotional, and behavioral needs. In this role, you will oversee all aspects of school operations, instruction, and staff development while ensuring a safe, structured, and inclusive learning environment.

As Principal, you will work closely with educators, clinical staff, families, and leadership to drive student success, support staff growth, and ensure high-quality, compliant programming that meets the needs of every learner.

Why Join Us?

At The Children's Center of Hamden, you'll be part of a collaborative, mission-driven team dedicated to helping students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Supportive School Environment Lead a program designed for individualized student support and meaningful relationship-building.

Meaningful Leadership Impact Shape instructional practices, school culture, and student outcomes every day.

Collaborative Treatment Team Partner closely with teachers, clinicians, and program leadership so you're never working in a silo. Retirement & Long-Term Security Access to a 403(b) retirement plan, Social Security benefits, and Teacher's Retirement eligibility where applicable.

Comprehensive Benefits Medical, dental, vision, life, disability, EAP, and wellness programs. On one of our medical plan options, The Children's Center covers 90% of the employee premium and contributes to Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), making quality healthcare affordable and accessible.

Generous Paid Time Off Sick, personal time, and school breaks so you can recharge and maintain balance.

Supportive, Mission-Driven Culture Be part of a school community dedicated to student success and teacher well-being.

What You'll Do

As School Principal, you will:

• Provide leadership and direction for all school-based programming, ensuring high-quality instruction and student achievement
• Supervise and support teachers, paraprofessionals, and administrative staff to promote accountability and professional growth
• Lead curriculum development and instructional alignment with Connecticut state standards
• Implement educator evaluation systems, including SEED, and conduct staff evaluations
• Design and deliver professional development to support instructional excellence
• Oversee implementation of the Behavioral Management Plan in collaboration with clinical staff
• Collaborate with clinical teams to support student treatment planning and behavioral interventions
• Manage student referrals and maintain accurate student census and placement processes
• Coordinate state-mandated assessments and ensure compliance with all requirements
• Oversee student data systems, including CT SEDS, to ensure accuracy and compliance
• Develop and manage the school's master schedule
• Oversee daily school operations, including arrival, transitions, and dismissal procedures
• Facilitate team meetings, including IST and grade-level collaboration meetings
• Partner with PRTF and Day School staff to ensure smooth student enrollment and transitions
• Build strong relationships with families and community partners
• Lead the review and implementation of school policies and the Student Handbook
• Support recruitment, onboarding, and performance management of staff
• Participate in IEP, PPT, and 504 meetings as needed
• Ensure a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment for all students
• Perform other duties as assigned to support program success

What We're Looking For

• CT Certification in Intermediate Administration or Supervision (Endorsement #092) and
• Holds Special Education Certification (165) with the Connecticut Department of Education
• Background in special education strongly preferred
• Proven ability to lead, implement, and evaluate educational programming
• Strong knowledge of state and federal special education regulations
• Demonstrated leadership, communication, and organizational skills
• Ability to collaborate across multidisciplinary teams and external partners

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

• Ability to perform light to moderate lifting, standing, walking, bending, and other physical tasks as needed
• Potential exposure to bodily fluids and other environmental hazards in a school-based setting

Join Our Team

If you are a passionate educational leader committed to supporting students and building a strong school community, we encourage you to apply and make a meaningful impact at Whitney Hall School.

The Children's Center of Hamden is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.