Cristo Rey Charleston High School is seeking its founding academic leader. This position is an opportunity for an experienced school leader both to serve the students at Cristo Rey Charleston High School, and also to be part of the largest network of Catholic high schools in the country that exclusively serves under-resourced youth.
About Cristo Rey Charleston High School
Cristo Rey Charleston High School is the 42nd Cristo Rey school in the United States and will open in August 2027 to a founding freshman class of approximately 100 students. At full enrollment in 2031, the school will serve over 400 students in grades 9-12. Cristo Rey schools empower student formation through the integration of rigorous college preparatory academics, four years of professional work experience, support to and through college, and Catholic educational values.
Beyond the academic and extracurricular programs, the Cristo Rey model includes a Corporate Work Study Program wherein students work in professional jobs off campus one day every week. One hundred percent of Cristo Rey Charleston students will participate in Corporate Work Study, which funds 50% of the annual cost of education for each student. Leading the school in maintaining a rigorous academic program in this unique model will be key to the success of the founding principal and the school.
About the Position
The Founding Principal will be the instructional and academic leader of the school, collaborating with fellow administrators, parents, faculty, and staff to ensure a school environment and instructional program that is aligned with the Cristo Charleston High School mission and vision. Working together with the President and the Vice President of Corporate Work Study, the Principal ensures that highly effective instruction is taking place [BC1] and that the social/emotional well-being of students is maintained to facilitate a safe, productive, and enthusiastic learning environment.
The Principal will be hired by, and report to, Cristo Rey Charleston High School’s President. S/He will build, lead, and develop a team that includes the faculty and the following non-faculty direct reports: Assistant Principal, Dean, Director of Social Emotional Counseling and Director of College Counseling.
Professional Qualifications and Personal Qualities
• Substantial teaching experience with a deep understanding of effective pedagogy
• Experience leading and mentoring teachers, esp. in the areas of teaching methodology and classroom management
• Strong verbal and written communication skills and the ability to communicate effectively with faculty, students, parents, and business partners
• Demonstrated commitment to working with diverse communities
• Open and flexible problem solver ready to lead the academic team towards excellence and rigor in a nontraditional school environment and schedule
• Understands and embraces both our identity as a Catholic school for students of all faiths and the Cristo Rey mission
• Practicing Catholic preferred, but not required
• Spanish speaking a plus, but not required
• Master’s degree in educational field
• At least 5 years of experience in school site leadership and 3 years of high school teaching experience
Statement of Nondiscrimination
Cristo Rey Charleston High School is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, national or ethnic origin, age, religion, disability, or any other category protected by federal, state or local law in the administration of any of its educational programs and activities or with respect to employment.
Application Process
Submit a cover letter, resume, and three references to careers@cristoreycharleston.org.
The Principal will be able to begin service in June or July 2026.
