Summer Academy Principal

SummaryFoundation Academies seeks a highly effective and results-driven Summer Academy Principal to lead the execution of our Summer Academy program. This leader is responsible for ensuring that summer programming delivers strong academic outcomes, aligned instruction, and a structured, engaging scholar experience. This role requires both pre-program planning and post-program follow-through in addition to program execution. Success in this role will be measured by student academic growth, instructional quality, scholar attendance, and overall program execution.The Summer Academy Principal owns both instructional quality and daily operations, ensuring that all systems—from staffing to data tracking—are tightly aligned and executed with excellence. This role requires a leader who can set a clear vision, manage adults effectively, and ensure scholars are making measurable academic progress throughout the program.Reports ToSenior Director of Academic OperationsProgram DetailsDates: July 13 – August 6Schedule: Monday–Thursday, 8am-3:30pmLocation: Trenton, NJMust be available in person for all Summer Academy datesCompensationTotal Stipend: $5,000Payment Structure:50% ($2,500) paid prior to the start of Summer Academy in recognition of responsibilities including:Staffing the programEnsuring invited scholars are enrolled and committed to attendSupporting pre-program planning and readiness50% ($2,500) paid upon successful completion of the program, contingent upon:Full execution of program responsibilitiesSubmission of all required data, reports, and materialsMeeting program expectations for operations and instructional leadershipKey ResponsibilitiesInstructional LeadershipSet and communicate clear expectations for high-quality, standards-aligned instruction across all classroomsEnsure strong alignment between standards, objectives, instruction, and assessment (including daily checks for understanding)Review lesson plans and provide actionable feedback to ensure rigor and alignmentMonitor classroom instruction through walkthroughs and ensure consistent implementation of instructional expectationsLead data analysis cycles and ensure teachers are using student data to adjust instruction in real timeStaffing & Program PlanningCollaborate with school leaders to determine staffing and student enrollmentEnsure strong scholar enrollment and attendance by actively supporting outreach and follow-through with familiesLead staff onboarding and provide training on program expectations, instructional priorities, and systemsCoordinate with internal teams and external partners to plan enrichment opportunities and special programmingOperations & Program ManagementOversee all aspects of daily program operations, including:Attendance and scholar engagementBehavior systems and expectationsFood service Assistant coordinationField trips and special eventsEnsure compliance with Summer Food Program requirements, including training and implementationSupervise and coordinate staff and volunteers to ensure smooth daily executionStep in to provide coverage as needed to maintain continuity of instructionData & Progress MonitoringEstablish and oversee systems for daily and end-of-program progress monitoringEnsure consistent collection and analysis of student data across classroomsMonitor progress toward program goals and make adjustments as neededCommunicate clear, data-informed updates to staff on scholar performance and next stepsCommunication & CultureMaintain strong communication with staff, families, and leadership throughout the programShare weekly updates highlighting student progress, program successes, and key announcementsBuild and sustain a positive, structured, and engaging program culture aligned to Foundation Academies’ valuesQualificationsNJ Certification requiredDemonstrated experience in instructional leadership and adult managementProven ability to:Drive strong instructional outcomesAnalyze data and lead data-driven decision-makingManage school-based operations effectivelyStrong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skillsCommitment to equity and experience working with diverse student populations