26-27 SY: Principal (Director of Instruction) (9th-12th)

Start Date: July 1, 2026

Location: Philadelphia, PA

Position Type: Full-Time | 2026-2027 School Year

ABOUT ESPERANZA ACADEMY

Esperanza means hope. Esperanza Academy Charter School (EACS), located in the Hunting Park section of North Philadelphia, is dedicated to serving the students within its community. We believe education can be a vehicle for social and economic advancement, especially in underserved communities. This core belief drives our relentless pursuit to become the best educational option for all students in the Philadelphia area.

Our strong track record of academic excellence and impact within our community makes us stand out. The Academy has 11th-grade test scores above the city of Philadelphia average and value-added math and reading proficiency growth is among the highest in Pennsylvania. Students graduate at a rate exceeding 90% and drop out at only 1%. For 10 out of 12 years, the Academy has been awarded a silver or bronze medal rating in the US News ranking of Best High Schools in the country.         

In the fall of 2025, we opened a brand-new elementary school building, marking the completion of our expansion to a full K–12 program serving over 2,200 students. This growth will make Esperanza Academy the second-largest single charter school in Philadelphia, reinforcing our commitment to delivering high-quality education to even more students in our city.   

THE OPPORTUNITY

At Esperanza Academy Charter School (EACS), we keep students at the center of everything we do. We believe that every child, regardless of background or circumstance, deserves a transformative education that opens doors to opportunity, achievement, and lifelong success. Our mission is to empower students through rigorous academics, character development, and a culture of high expectations, ensuring that they are prepared for the next stage of their education and life beyond the classroom.

To help lead this important work, Esperanza Academy Charter School is seeking a High-School Principal (listed internally as the Director of Instruction) who is a passionate, mission-driven, and strategic instructional leader. The Principal serves as the instructional and cultural leader of the building, shaping a vision of excellence for teaching and learning while fostering a school community where students feel seen, valued, and inspired to reach their full potential.

In this critical role, the Principal will lead and support teachers in delivering high-quality, standards-aligned instruction, ensure a joyful and inclusive school culture where students thrive, and work in close partnership with families to create strong school-home connections. The Principal will also drive academic achievement, support staff development, and ensure that every aspect of the school’s operations reflects the Academy’s commitment to excellence and equity.

This full-time leadership opportunity for the 2026–2027 school year offers a chance to join a collaborative, mission-driven team that believes deeply in the power and promise of every student. It is a role for a visionary leader ready to make a lasting impact.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide instructional leadership by coaching, supporting, and developing teachers to deliver rigorous, standards-aligned instruction.
• Design and implement systems for instructional planning, data analysis, and continuous improvement across all grade levels served.
• Build and maintain a positive, safe, and inclusive school culture focused on academic excellence, community, and belonging.
• Foster collaboration among staff, students, and families to create a unified and thriving school community.
• Lead professional development aligned to school goals, teacher growth areas, and the Esperanza Academy Essentials.
• Analyze academic data to inform school-wide instructional decisions, interventions, and strategic planning.
• Partner with student support services (special education, English Language Development, counseling) to meet the needs of all learners.
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal educational requirements and standards.
• Cultivate strong relationships with families, engaging them as critical partners in student success.
• Model and uphold the highest standards of professionalism, accountability, and empathy for all members of the school community.

What you will bring: 

• A deep belief in Esperanza Academy’s mission and a commitment to educational equity.
• A proven track record of raising student achievement through strong instructional leadership.
• A minimum of 5 years of successful classroom teaching experience, with at least 3 years in a school leadership role preferred.
• A Master’s Degree in Education, Educational Leadership, or a related field is required. (Official transcripts showing the degree conferred are required before the starting date of employment.)
• Pennsylvania Administrative Principal Certification PK-12 is required.
• Clearances: All applicants must have current FBI, PA Criminal, and Child Abuse background checks conducted within the last 12 months.
• Spanish fluency is preferred but not required.



Follow Us: To learn more about Esperanza Academy, please visit our website at https://www.esperanzaacademycs.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

Why Work With Us:

✔ Mission-Driven Impact: Be part of a team that prioritizes student well-being and builds an “opportunity community” in Hunting Park.

✔ Competitive Compensation: Your expertise and dedication are valued through a salary that reflects your meaningful contributions.

✔ Comprehensive Benefits from Day One: Enjoy health, dental, vision, life, and short-term disability insurance, plus retirement benefits, starting on your first day.

✔ Work-Life Balance: Benefit from paid time off and school holidays that allow you to recharge.

✔ Tuition Assistance for Your Growth: Access up to $8,000 in tuition reimbursement after six months, subject to availability.

✔ Pathways for Career Advancement: Receive mentorship, professional development, and leadership opportunities to grow your career in education and student services.