DOWAGIAC UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT

243 S. Front Street

Dowagiac, MI 49047

Phone: (269) 782-4400

ADMINISTRATIVE VACANCY – EXTERNAL/INTERNAL POSTING

DATE: July 12, 2025

POSITION: Middle School Principal

START DATE: August 4, 2025

CLOSING DATE: July 22, 2025

REPORTS TO: Superintendent

JOB GOAL:

The Middle School Principal leads Dowagiac Middle School with a student-centered focus, supporting the academic, social, and emotional development of early adolescents. The principal ensures a safe, welcoming environment while promoting high expectations and strong relationships among students, staff, and families. Responsibilities include instructional leadership, staff supervision, curriculum and assessment oversight, and daily operations. The principal also oversees extracurricular programs and building communication. With a clear understanding of middle school development, the principal prepares students for a successful transition to high school and beyond, fostering a culture of growth, engagement, and lifelong learning.

CERTIFICATIONS/LICENSE/REQUIREMENTS:

Master’s Degree in Education, Administration or related field
Valid teaching and administrative certificates
Minimum 5 years of teaching at the secondary level
Hold or ability to obtain administrative certification
Must possess strong communication and leadership skills
Excellent understanding of curriculum and best instructional practices
Ability to build strong working and community relationships
Strong skills in data analysis
Able to demonstrate cultural proficiency
Knowledge of MTSS process, restorative practices, and positive behavior interventions/supports
Experience leading and supporting teacher teams
Ability to evaluate teacher performance and program effectiveness

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Assists in the recruiting, screening, recommending, and retention of qualified candidates for positions on the middle school staff and in the orientation of new personnel
Plans and administers professional development activities focused on middle school best practices
Interacts with both staff and students in a constructive manner to encourage each individual to perform at their highest level, with special attention to the developmental needs of middle school students
Regularly evaluates performance and effectiveness of programs and staff
Works collaboratively with other district administrators, teachers, staff, students, and parents
Maintains relations and regularly communicates with parents, parent groups, school volunteers, and outside agencies
Facilitates smooth transitions for students moving from elementary to middle school and middle school to high school
Implements policy and procedural changes from the Board of Education, the State and Federal levels at the building
Participates in district-wide activities, in-services, and committees, as appropriate
Prepare the building budget and work collaboratively with the Finance Director on budgeting/purchasing accounts for the middle school
Promotes the school improvement process for the building and in connection to district goals
Demonstrates effective skills in consensus building and the development of collaborative work climates within the building; facilitates a professional learning community
Assumes responsibility for the safety and security of all students and staff
Maintains student conduct and enforces discipline in compliance with district procedures and according to due process rights of students, utilizing developmentally appropriate practices for middle school students
Oversees middle school extracurricular activities and clubs
Completes other duties as assigned

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT:

1. Salary schedule and benefits commensurate with experience.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:

Apply online at: https://jobs.redroverk12.com/org/DUSD

Please include letter of interest and current resume, by July 22, 2025

QUESTIONS: Contact Greg Blomgren, Superintendent, 269-782-4400 gblomgren@dowagiacschools.org

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER