Summer Academy Principal

Summary Foundation 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 To Senior Director of Academic Operations Program Details Dates: July 13 – August 6 Schedule: Monday–Thursday, 8am-3:30pm Location: Trenton, NJ Must be available in person for all Summer Academy dates Compensation Total Stipend: $5,000 Payment Structure: 50% ($2,500) paid prior to the start of Summer Academy in recognition of responsibilities including: Staffing the program Ensuring invited scholars are enrolled and committed to attend Supporting pre-program planning and readiness 50% ($2,500) paid upon successful completion of the program, contingent upon: Full execution of program responsibilities Submission of all required data, reports, and materials Meeting program expectations for operations and instructional leadership Key Responsibilities Instructional Leadership Set and communicate clear expectations for high-quality, standards-aligned instruction across all classrooms Ensure strong alignment between standards, objectives, instruction, and assessment (including daily checks for understanding) Review lesson plans and provide actionable feedback to ensure rigor and alignment Monitor classroom instruction through walkthroughs and ensure consistent implementation of instructional expectations Lead data analysis cycles and ensure teachers are using student data to adjust instruction in real time Staffing & Program Planning Collaborate with school leaders to determine staffing and student enrollment Ensure strong scholar enrollment and attendance by actively supporting outreach and follow-through with families Lead staff onboarding and provide training on program expectations, instructional priorities, and systems Coordinate with internal teams and external partners to plan enrichment opportunities and special programming Operations & Program Management Oversee all aspects of daily program operations, including: Attendance and scholar engagement Behavior systems and expectations Food service Assistant coordination Field trips and special events Ensure compliance with Summer Food Program requirements, including training and implementation Supervise and coordinate staff and volunteers to ensure smooth daily execution Step in to provide coverage as needed to maintain continuity of instruction Data & Progress Monitoring Establish and oversee systems for daily and end-of-program progress monitoring Ensure consistent collection and analysis of student data across classrooms Monitor progress toward program goals and make adjustments as needed Communicate clear, data-informed updates to staff on scholar performance and next steps Communication & Culture Maintain strong communication with staff, families, and leadership throughout the program Share weekly updates highlighting student progress, program successes, and key announcements Build and sustain a positive, structured, and engaging program culture aligned to Foundation Academies’ values Qualifications NJ Certification required Demonstrated experience in instructional leadership and adult management Proven ability to: Drive strong instructional outcomes Analyze data and lead data-driven decision-making Manage school-based operations effectively Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills Commitment to equity and experience working with diverse student populations   Offices: (General Consideration);