New York City Public Schools (NYCPS) seeks experienced educators who can demonstrate sustained success in driving student achievement growth, who will submit New School Proposals and serve as New School Acting Principal Assigned/Project Director for the 2026-2027 school year.
Chancellor Melissa Avilés-Ramos has made reimagining the student experience one of her four pillars for building trust and improving outcomes in New York City Public Schools. A key part of this vision is the creation of new, high-performing, and innovative schools that redefine what’s possible for students.
To bring this vision to life, we are seeking exceptional leaders with a clear, forward-thinking vision for student success. Ideal candidates will have a proven track record of strong leadership, instructional excellence, and the ability to cultivate a thriving school culture. These leaders will be responsible for shaping the mission and vision of a new school, pioneering innovative educational models, and assembling a dedicated team to build a transformative learning environment from the ground up.
Overview
New York City Public Schools (NYCPS) is committed to expanding access to high-quality, equitable, and innovative school and program options for students and families across the city. Our office leads the development of new district schools, dual and bilingual language programs, career and technical education (CTE) pathways, and other specialized programs designed to meet the diverse needs of our communities.
At the heart of our work is a simple but powerful goal: to create multiple pathways to success, ensuring that every student receives an excellent education, is prepared for college and career, and has the tools to achieve long-term economic security.
New School Development
To bring this vision to life, we appoint a New School Acting Principal Assigned/Project Director to lead the design and development of each new school, this new school will be built in collaboration with the superintendent and community stakeholders. The Acting Principal Assigned/Project Director will oversee every aspect of the school’s creation, including:
Mission & Vision – Defining the school’s purpose, values, educational approach and long-term goals.
Student & Staff Recruitment – Developing strategies to attract and retain passionate, talented educators and engaged learners.
Curriculum & Instruction – Designing a rigorous, data-driven academic program that fosters student success.
School Culture – Fostering an inclusive, supportive, and student-centered learning environment.
Serving Special Populations – Ensuring equitable access and support for diverse students needs.
Budget & Finance – Managing resources effectively to sustain long-term success.
Student-Centered Design-Central to this new school’s model is an emphasis on student agency and collaboration. Students will not just be learners—they will be co-creators of their educational experience.
At the heart of this school’s design is a commitment to student voice, with students as co-creators and active drivers of their own learning. The model emphasizes self-discovery, social construction, teamwork, and collaboration to cultivate a dynamic and empowering educational experience. These principles ensure a dynamic, student-centered environment where learners develop the skills, confidence, and adaptability needed for success.
Application Requirements:
To apply, please submit the following:
Resume and Cover Letter
A comprehensive overview of your leadership experience and qualifications.
New School Proposal
A well-articulated proposal that outlines a clear and compelling vision for both student academic and non-academic experiences. Be specific in detailing how you will bring this vision to life.
Proposal Guidelines
Your proposal should address the following key questions in no more than 1,000 words:
Educational Framework & Mission – What is the guiding philosophy and purpose of the proposed school?
Graduate Profile – What essential knowledge, skills, and competencies will students gain upon graduation?
Long-Term Sustainability – What strategies will you implement to ensure continued success and long-term impact?
Evidence of Demand – What data or tangible evidence supports the need for this school and its ability to maintain sustainable enrollment?
Addressing Systemic Challenges – What specific challenge does this school aim to solve?
Target Population & Grade Span – Who will this school serve, and what are the unique needs of this population?
Leadership Fit – Why are you the right person to lead this school?
Key Leadership Traits – What three characteristics will enable you to be an effective school leader?
Community Engagement – How will you involve students, families, and community stakeholders in the design, development, and ongoing operation of the school?
Application Deadline:
Submit your application to newschoolsjobs@schools.nyc.gov by July 31, 2025
Selection Process & Qualifications
NYCPS will carefully review all applications and notify candidates selected to move forward in the selection process. In addition to assessing the strength of your application, we are seeking leaders who demonstrate the following qualifications:
Proven Impact on Student Achievement – A strong track record of improving student outcomes in a school setting.
Data-Driven Decision Making – Experience using data and strategic planning to drive instructional excellence and increase student achievement.
Strong Organizational & Leadership Skills – Ability to manage multiple priorities, work under pressure, and meet evolving deadlines with efficiency and precision.
Successful candidates will be visionary, results-oriented, and deeply committed to student success.
Support for New School Leaders
Selected school leaders will receive comprehensive support from the Office of New School Development & Design throughout the planning and design process. As part of this support, leaders will participate in the New School Leader Fellowship (NSLF)—a theory- and data-driven program designed in collaboration with New Leaders to equip them with the skills and strategies needed to navigate the challenges of opening a new school.
Additionally, leaders will receive guidance in the following key areas:
Curriculum Development – Designing a rigorous, engaging, and student-centered academic program.
Student Recruitment & Family Engagement – Crafting and executing strategies to attract students and build strong relationships with families.
Budget & Financial Management – Developing a deep understanding of school budgeting and resource allocation.
Funding Opportunities – Identifying potential sources of additional funding to enhance school programs and long-term sustainability.
Through NSLF and ongoing mentorship, our goal is to ensure every leader is fully prepared to launch and sustain a high-performing, innovative school that meets the needs of its community.
Appointment to the principal position is subsequently subject to selection through the Chancellor’s C30 Process.