Principal

Location: Columbia, SC

Reports To: Richland One Middle College 

Position Type: Full-time (12-Month)

Position Overview

The Principal of Richland One Middle College serves as the chief instructional and administrative leader for the district’s specialized dual-enrollment high school program. Located on a post-secondary campus, the Middle College gives high school juniors and seniors the opportunity to earn dual high school and college credits in an immersive collegiate environment.

The Principal is responsible for visionary leadership, instructional supervision, student success initiatives, and managing the strategic partnership between Richland County School District One and the higher education host institution.

Key Responsibilities

• Academic & Instructional Leadership:

  • Direct and evaluate instructional practices to ensure alignment with South Carolina academic standards and college-level rigor.

  • Oversee curriculum implementation, student advisement, and graduation plans tailored to dual-enrollment pathways.

• Partnership & Strategic Management:

  • Serve as the primary liaison between Richland County School District One and the host college administration.

  • Coordinate scheduling, facilities use, and shared resources to maintain a seamless transition for students into a post-secondary culture.

• Student Support & School Culture:

  • Foster a safe, inclusive, and academically challenging environment that promotes independence, college readiness, and career maturity.

  • Implement proactive academic intervention, counseling, and discipline systems tailored to a high school/college hybrid setting.

• Administrative & Staff Supervision:

  • Recruit, supervise, and evaluate certified teachers and support staff.

  • Manage school operations, including budget allocation, safety protocols, state reporting, and compliance with federal/state education regulations.

• Community & Stakeholder Engagement:

  • Communicate regularly with parents, community leaders, and district administration regarding student progress and program outcomes.

  • Lead recruitment and admissions efforts to promote the Middle College program to prospective students across the district.

Qualifications

• Education: Master’s degree or higher in Educational Leadership, Administration, or a related field (Doctorate preferred).

• Certification: Valid South Carolina Secondary Principal Certification (or eligibility for immediate certification).

• Experience: Minimum of 3–5 years of successful administrative experience at the high school level; experience with dual-enrollment, charter, or specialized magnet programs highly preferred.

• Key Competencies: Strong understanding of post-secondary articulation, collaborative leadership skills, and excellent written and verbal communication.