Principal

School Principal – Therapeutic Day School (Plainfield, IL)

Date Posted: October 8, 2026
Salary: $90,000–$130,000 per year
Job Type: Full-Time
Location: Plainfield, Illinois

About Parkland Preparatory Academy

Parkland Preparatory Academy is an innovative therapeutic day school dedicated to helping students with diverse academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs reach their full potential. Our team works collaboratively to provide individualized support, meaningful educational opportunities, and a structured environment where students can grow and succeed.

We are seeking an experienced, motivated, and student-centered Principal to lead our Plainfield campus. This individual will oversee daily school operations, support staff development, maintain regulatory compliance, and ensure high-quality educational and therapeutic programming.

The ideal candidate is a strong leader who leads by example, builds positive relationships, and is committed to creating a safe, supportive, and effective learning environment for students and staff.

Qualifications and Experience

• Must hold a valid Illinois Type 75 Administrative License and LBS1 Certification.
• Knowledge of educational practices, child development, classroom management, and therapeutic interventions.
• Prior supervisory or school leadership experience preferred.
• Familiarity with therapeutic school regulations and special education requirements preferred.
• Knowledge of Illinois special education regulations, including Administrative Code 226 and Part 401.
• Understanding of mandated reporting requirements and crisis intervention procedures.
• Strong leadership, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, delegate responsibilities, and work collaboratively with diverse teams.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and general computer operations.
• Ability to remain calm, professional, and effective in challenging or emergency situations.

Key Responsibilities

School Leadership and Operations

• Establish and maintain school-wide expectations, professional standards, and performance goals.
• Oversee daily school operations to ensure effective educational and therapeutic programming.
• Monitor school safety and security, including the building and surrounding property.
• Coordinate class schedules, lesson plans, student records, and other essential school functions.
• Assist with school budget planning, resource allocation, and building maintenance.
• Identify challenges affecting school operations and proactively implement solutions.

Staff Supervision and Development

• Observe, evaluate, and provide feedback to teachers and paraprofessionals.
• Participate in recruiting, interviewing, hiring, and onboarding school personnel.
• Organize staff meetings, team meetings, in-service training, and professional development opportunities.
• Support ongoing staff growth by identifying training needs and promoting instructional best practices.
• Address staff concerns professionally, respectfully, and with a solution-oriented approach.
• Delegate responsibilities effectively and foster a collaborative, accountable team environment.

Student Support and Special Education Compliance

• Meet with prospective students and their families to explain school programming and services.
• Participate in IEP meetings as the school administrator and authorized representative for educational services.
• Monitor student academic, behavioral, and social-emotional progress and use outcome data to guide program improvements.
• Support the implementation and ongoing development of individualized educational and behavioral interventions.
• Promote Parkland Preparatory Academy’s social-emotional programming.
• Assist with crisis intervention and physical restraint when necessary and in accordance with applicable training, policies, and regulations.
• Maintain current professional certifications and complete required training to ensure compliance with Illinois State Board of Education requirements.

Communication and Collaboration

• Build strong working relationships with teachers, therapists, counselors, administrators, families, district representatives, and outside agencies.
• Communicate clearly and professionally with parents, guardians, staff, and community partners.
• Respond to concerns with professionalism, tact, and a focus on positive outcomes.
• Maintain a positive representation of Parkland Preparatory Academy within the school community.
• Stay informed about developments in special education, therapeutic programming, school leadership, and instructional practices.
• Demonstrate knowledge of emergency and disaster procedures and ensure readiness to respond appropriately.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary based on administrative experience and education
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Life insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Tuition reimbursement

Join Our Team!

At Parkland Preparatory Academy, our leaders play an essential role in creating an environment where students and staff can thrive. We are looking for a dedicated Principal who is passionate about special education, committed to staff development, and ready to lead a collaborative team in making a meaningful difference in students’ lives.

If you are an experienced educational leader looking for an opportunity to make an impact in a therapeutic school setting, we encourage you to submit your resume.

To learn more about Parkland Preparatory Academy, visit www.parklandprep.com.