Ocean Studies Charter School in Key Largo, Florida, is an exceptional place to build a career for those passionate about education, marine science, and making a difference in young lives. This A-rated, tuition-free public charter school, serving grades K-8 it offers a unique and inspiring work environment rooted in its marine science-enriched curriculum and Montessori-inspired approach. Located in the heart of the Florida Keys, the school immerses its staff and students in authentic, hands-on experiences within the region’s stunning natural surroundings, fostering curiosity, creativity, and a deep connection to the environment.
What sets Ocean Studies apart is its commitment to excellence and innovation. From weekly field labs exploring the local ecosystem to a state-of-the-art marine science lab, employees have the opportunity to engage in meaningful, real-world education that goes beyond the classroom. The school’s dedicated team of educators collaborates to nurture independent, self-motivated learners, producing students who consistently meet or exceed Florida State Standards. With a tight-knit community of just 180 students (and growing) and a supportive staff, you’ll find a workplace that values teamwork, growth, and a shared passion for environmental stewardship.
Joining Ocean Studies means becoming part of a nationally recognized Ocean Guardian School (designated by NOAA) and a Green School (recognized by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection). With a new, modern facility at MM 100 bayside and plans for future enhancements like an outdoor marine lab, this is a place where your work can inspire the next generation of scientists, writers, and guardians of the planet—all while surrounded by the beauty of the Florida Keys.
If you’re looking to move your education career forward with an opportunity that blends purpose, innovation, and a front-row seat to nature’s wonders, Ocean Studies Charter School is calling your name to be its next School Principal.
Position Summary:
Provide effective leadership to ensure the highest level of academic achievement is reached for each student. Responsible for managing the operation of the school, ensuring a safe learning environment and maintaining a strong sense of community.
Responsibilities:
- Lead the school’s academic program in a manner consistent with the school’s mission, state and district requirements, and Montessori principles.
- Ensure the integration of marine science across all subjects by including collaboration, project based learning and innovative instructional strategies.
- Lead the faculty to continually improve the quality of the school’s instructional methods and materials in line with the philosophy of the school and state requirements.
- Foster a culture of shared ownership and celebrate success.
- Work with staff to establish clear achievement goals for each student and provide continued direction, coaching and support to accomplish the goals.
- Evaluate student learning through analyzing multiple data sources. Review results regularly with each educator to ensure every student continues to learn and reach their potential. Share student growth results with the OSCS Board.
- Prepare the annual school budget, adhere to and monitor monthly, oversee the bookkeeper, ensure fidelity and be fiscally responsible for the school.
- Maintain the school property including building maintenance and repairs, landscaping, ecopod, and buses to ensure student safety and a continued well-kept environment. Responsible for ensuring comprehensive insurance is secured yearly working with insurance agent.
- Work closely with the Board to deliver the strategic plan effectively, including any construction projects agreed by the Board.
- Recruit highly effective, compassionate educators committed to delivering the vision and mission of the school.
- Supervise, support and evaluate instructional staff. Offer need-based opportunities for growth and use multiple methods of support to match specific learning styles. Use student achievement data, evidence-based examples and in-class observations to provide constructive feedback and provide effective personal development support.
- Build strong relationships with the OSCS Board, staff, parents, families, and the community.
- Uphold the highest ethical and professional standards and high expectations across the school.
- Adhere to all OSCS and Monroe County school policies including holding all school stakeholders accountable for adherence to handbooks and the student code of conduct. This includes student discipline and communicating with families when issues arise.
- Ensure compliance with all applicable state & charter laws
- Work closely with the Board to ensure compliance with Florida Sunshine laws, including issuing board agendas, meeting notices, minutes and managing all related documentation.
- Be willing to step outside the job to ensure school success including supporting local community events, fundraising events and participating in community groups.
- Responsible for human resources including payroll, onboarding/offboarding employees, I-9 verification
- Other duties as assigned by the Board
Requirements and Qualifications:
- Minimum of 3 years’ experience as an administrator, preferably as a principal or assistant principal at an independent charter school
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Master’s degree in educational leadership
- A valid Florida Educator Certificate in Education Leadership is preferred
- Must have an understanding of charter schools.
- A proven ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including local school board, charter school board, educators, families, students and the local community.
- Strong leadership skills and excellent organizational skills.
- Strong commitment to build effective relationships with local community and organizations that are integral to the school’s success.
- Understanding of the school’s curriculum, state standards and best practices along with a passion for project-based learning.
- Proven experience with preparing annual budgets, managing the schools’ finances and resources and ensuring compliance with all relevant accounting practices.
- Must be familiar with and uphold the mission and vision of the school.
Benefits:
Health plan, 401k retirement plan with 5% Board match, 10 days PTO during the school year, 20 days PTO during June and July
This search is being conducted by Ed-Exec, Inc. “Your Search firm for Education”
Please forward all inquiries and resumes or CVs in confidence to:
Peter Rynkowski, Senior Executive Recruiter
*All interested parties will remain confidential during initial phases.