Position Description

ABOUT YOU

Are you someone who thrives in education leadership? Do you inspire and empower teams to achieve excellence? Are you a leader driven by purpose, strategic vision, and a desire to cultivate a vibrant culture of learning and faith? If you are a committed Christ follower who sees every challenge as an opportunity and believes in the transformative power of Christian education this role is for you.

ABOUT JOHN KNOX CHRISTIAN SCHOOL (JKCS)

For over 65 years, John Knox Christian School (JKCS) has been a thriving Christ-centered community in Oakville, nurturing academic achievement and spiritual growth, currently serving 400 students.

Known for its warm, collaborative culture, JKCS equips children for God’s Kingdom by fostering a love of learning, a heart for service, and a life grounded in faith. The school embraces traditional Christian values while welcoming diverse denominations.

Staff and students are encouraged to pursue both professional and spiritual excellence. As JKCS expands, it celebrates God’s faithfulness and remains dedicated to educating and empowering the next generation.

ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY

As the Principal, you provide visionary leadership to staff, students, and the broader JKCS community. This role works closely with the Board and will lead the implementation of the next strategic plan; shaping and executing the vision of a Jesus-first school that equips and inspires Kingdom ambassadors.

Your leadership will:

• Inspire and mentor an empowered team of educators.
• Shape and implement strategic plans for growth and innovation.
• Build connections with students, staff, parents, alumni, and the broader community.
• Champion a culture of excellence, faith, and joyful learning.
• Model servant-leadership that is dependent on God.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Leadership

• Model Jesus-first leadership through authentic application of the school’s mission, values, and beliefs.
• Empower staff to see their work as a ministry and a calling.
• Foster a Christ-centered culture where students and staff flourish academically, spiritually, and personally.
• Provide visionary and strategic direction, aspiring to be a transformational leader who drives the execution of the current strategic plan and prepares for future planning.
• Engage actively with parents, alumni, and community partners to grow and strengthen the JKCS community.
• Hands-on leader who actively participates in every aspect of life at JKCS.
• Foster entrepreneurial vision and opportunity to expand school revenue; collaboratively supporting the development team.
• Disciple and mentor staff and leaders to embrace counter-cultural, Christ-centered leadership, integrating faith and learning in all aspects of school life.

Strategic Direction

• Work with the Board to execute and implement strategic plans and prepare for future growth.
• Lead and empower the experienced leadership team to continue thriving in their areas of expertise.
• Develop initiatives to engage with alumni and the broader community.

Operational Excellence

• Oversee academic programs, curriculum development, and student welfare.
• Utilize technology to enhance learning outcomes and streamline school operations.
• Oversee financial sustainability and operational integrity.

Community Engagement

• Be an ambassador for JKCS, promoting the school’s mission and vision.
• Cultivate relationships with Christian and educational organizations to benefit the school community.
• Encourage an active culture of volunteerism and parent involvement.
• Seek opportunities to promote the school with emphasis on school promotion, recruitment, and fundraising.

WHAT YOU BRING

Education & Experience

• Professional designation as a Certified Teacher.
• A recognized Principal certificate and/or Master’s level education in a related field would be an asset.
• Extensive experience in educational leadership with administrative and staff oversight, preferably inclusive of elementary education.
• Teaching experience, preferably across a variety of grades. 
• Proven track record in strategic planning and team empowerment.
• Experience working with a governance Board (preferred).
• Previous experience providing Biblical leadership to a Christian community.

Personal Attributes

• Authentic, Christ-centered spiritual leadership modeling Jesus’ character and JKCS values.
• Visionary thinker and strategic innovator.
• Humble leader; demonstrated compassionate listening skills.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills with a talent for building meaningful relationships.
• Motivated, organized, and adaptable with a heart for service.
• Strong communication skills, able to inspire and connect with diverse audiences.

BEFORE YOU APPLY

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary Range: $150,000-$160,000 (commensurate with experience).
• The successful candidate is anticipated to have a signed employee agreement in 2025, but will start in their role as Principal of JKCS for the 2026-2027 school year. This is done intentionally to allow the time necessary to strategically fill the role they will be leaving.

Workplace Environment

• Works on site at John Knox Christian School located in South-East Oakville.
• Expected to be at the school 5 days a week. 
• Additional time may be required for external events and appointments outside of regular working hours.