Head of School / Principal
Baxter Academy for Technology and Science
Portland, Maine
Role Overview
The Head of School/Principal serves as the instructional leader of Baxter Academy, working in close partnership with the Executive Director, Assistant Principal, Special Education Director, Data & Enrollment Manager, and Business Manager to ensure the strength, consistency, and continued evolution of our academic program. This role focuses on translating Baxter’s vision into daily practice—supporting faculty, maintaining high expectations for students, adhering to the 4 essential knowledge and practices determined by the DOE/MDOE/Charter Commission, and ensuring that our model, including Flex Friday and our Grade 9 blended learning pathway, are implemented with clarity and rigor.
Key Responsibilities
Instructional Leadership
- Lead the day-to-day implementation of Baxter’s academic program across in-person and blended environments
- Ensure strong, consistent instruction that maintains high expectations for all students, particularly in math and science
- Support, observe, and develop faculty in both classroom and blended learning practices
- Oversee the integration and effectiveness of the Grade 9 blended learning (Open Campus) model, ensuring student engagement, accountability, and academic progress
- Partner with the Assistant Principal, Special Education Director, Guidance Department, and Department Chairs to refine curriculum, assessment, and instructional practices
- Work with the Executive Director to ensure alignment between program design and overall school priorities, including the school’s annual budget.
Flex Friday
- Oversee the execution and continuous improvement of Flex Friday independent projects and the Freshman Experience
- Ensure projects reflect rigorous academic work and meaningful community impact and STEM-related.
- Support strong student proposals, mid-year presentations (Baxter Ventures), and final exhibitions
Student Experience & Culture
- Maintain a school culture where students are known, challenged, and supported
- Ensure strong advisory systems and consistent expectations for behavior and engagement
- Work with staff to support student well-being and belonging
Operations & Team Leadership
- Oversee daily school operations, including scheduling and student systems
- Partner with the Assistant Principal, Special Education Director, and other team members to ensure strong implementation of school-wide systems and routines
Partnerships & Applied Learning
- Support connections with industry, higher education, and community partners
- Ensure students have access to internships, mentorships, and real-world learning opportunities
Qualifications
- Master’s Degree or greater in Educational Leadership or related field
- Maine Department of Education Building Administrator certification (040)
- 5 years or more of experience in school leadership and instructional supervision
- Knowledge of State, Federal, and Maine State Charter Commission laws & regulations
- A passion for supporting rigorous, student-centered instruction through access to community resources and engagement with industry partners
- Experience with blended, project-based, and/or innovative learning models preferred
- Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills
Compensation & Benefits
Salary and benefits are competitive and commensurate with experience.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Baxter Academy for Technology and Science is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, ancestry or national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in accordance with applicable state and federal laws.
About Baxter Academy
Baxter Academy is a public, tuition-free charter high school serving students from across southern Maine. Our program combines rigorous academics with real-world application, including our signature Flex Friday model and expanding blended learning opportunities. Our curriculum is STEM-focused and guided by an award-winning curriculum in the humanities.
Closing Date
Open until a suitable candidate is found. Priority will be given to applications submitted by May 1, 2026.
To apply for this position, please click the following link.
Thank you for your interest in Baxter Academy.
www.baxter-academy.org