Head of School/Principal

The Head of School/Principal serves as the instructional leader of Baxter Academy, working in close partnership with the Executive Director, Assistant Principal, Special Education Director, Data & Enrollment Manager, and Business Manager to ensure the strength, consistency, and continued evolution of our academic program. This role focuses on translating Baxter’s vision into daily practice—supporting faculty, maintaining high expectations for students, adhering to the 4 essential knowledge and practices determined by the DOE/MDOE/Charter Commission, and ensuring that our model, including Flex Friday and our Grade 9 blended learning pathway, are implemented with clarity and rigor.Key ResponsibilitiesInstructional LeadershipLead the day-to-day implementation of Baxter’s academic program across in-person and blended environmentsEnsure strong, consistent instruction that maintains high expectations for all students, particularly in math and scienceSupport, observe, and develop faculty in both classroom and blended learning practicesOversee the integration and effectiveness of the Grade 9 blended learning (Open Campus) model, ensuring student engagement, accountability, and academic progressPartner with the Assistant Principal, Special Education Director, Guidance Department, and Department Chairs to refine curriculum, assessment, and instructional practicesWork with the Executive Director to ensure alignment between program design and overall school priorities, including the school’s annual budget.Flex FridayOversee the execution and continuous improvement of Flex Friday independent projects and the Freshman ExperienceEnsure projects reflect rigorous academic work and meaningful community impact and STEM-related.Support strong student proposals, mid-year presentations (Baxter Ventures), and final exhibitionsStudent Experience & CultureMaintain a school culture where students are known, challenged, and supportedEnsure strong advisory systems and consistent expectations for behavior and engagementWork with staff to support student well-being and belongingOperations & Team LeadershipOversee daily school operations, including scheduling and student systemsPartner with the Assistant Principal, Special Education Director, and other team members to ensure strong implementation of school-wide systems and routinesPartnerships & Applied LearningSupport connections with industry, higher education, and community partnersEnsure students have access to internships, mentorships, and real-world learning opportunitiesQualificationsMaster’s Degree or greater in Educational Leadership or related fieldMaine Department of Education Building Administrator certification (040)5 years or more of experience in school leadership and instructional supervisionKnowledge of State, Federal, and Maine State Charter Commission laws & regulationsA passion for supporting rigorous, student-centered instruction through access to community resources and engagement with industry partnersExperience with blended, project-based, and/or innovative learning models preferredStrong organizational, communication, and leadership skillsCompensation & BenefitsSalary and benefits are competitive and commensurate with experience.Equal Opportunity EmployerBaxter Academy for Technology and Science is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, ancestry or national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in accordance with applicable state and federal laws.About Baxter AcademyBaxter Academy is a public, tuition-free charter high school serving students from across southern Maine. Our program combines rigorous academics with real-world application, including our signature Flex Friday model and expanding blended learning opportunities. Our curriculum is STEM-focused and guided by an award-winning curriculum in the humanities.