Department: Coupeville Middle School
Supervisor: Superintendent
Association: Non-represented
Salary range $160,014 - $189,195 commensurate with experience and qualifications.
The Coupeville School District Board of Directors presents
an invitation to apply for the position of
MIDDLE SCHOOL PRINCIPAL/ATHLETIC DIRECTOR
Coupeville School District seeks a visionary, collaborative leader to serve as the next Principal of our Middle School (grades 6-8) and Athletic Director for our entire 6-12 athletic program. This exceptional instructional leader will work closely with students, staff, families, and community partners to create a vibrant educational environment with a strong culture and effective procedures that prepare all students for success.
The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of instructional leadership, fostering positive school culture, and implementing effective systems and procedures. Additionally, the principal will serve as the Athletic Director for both middle and high school programs, overseeing a comprehensive 6-12 athletic program that builds character, teamwork, and school pride. The successful candidate will embrace Coupeville's unique community identity while leading our school and athletic programs to new heights of excellence.
About Our School
Our Middle School serves approximately 250 students in grades 6-8, providing a personalized educational experience where students are known, valued, and challenged to excel during these formative years of development.
A Culture of Excellence: We are committed to creating an exemplary learning environment where high academic expectations are coupled with strong support systems. The principal will lead efforts to continuously improve instructional practices, implement research-based strategies, and foster a culture of growth for both students and staff.
A Place Where Everyone Belongs: Our middle school takes pride in fostering strong, personal connections between students and staff. We're small enough that everyone is seen and valued for their unique contributions, yet large enough to offer diverse opportunities in academics, athletics, and activities.
Effective Systems and Procedures: The principal will develop and maintain clear, consistent systems that support a safe, orderly learning environment. From attendance and discipline procedures to academic interventions and celebrations of success, these systems ensure that our school runs efficiently while maximizing instructional time.
Athletics Program: As Athletic Director, the principal will oversee a comprehensive 6-12 athletic program that serves both the middle and high school. This role provides leadership for all aspects of our athletic programs, emphasizing participation and skill development at the middle school level while building competitive excellence at the high school level. Our athletics program fosters teamwork, perseverance, and leadership skills while building school spirit and community pride across both campuses.
Minimum Qualifications
Master's Degree in Educational Administration or related field
Valid Washington State Principal Certification (or ability to obtain)
Successful experience as a middle school administrator or teacher leader
Valid Washington State teaching certificate with successful middle school teaching experience
Demonstrated success in instructional leadership and curriculum development
Proven ability to build positive school culture and implement effective systems
Experience with athletics programs and/or coaching
Understanding of WIAA rules, regulations, and compliance requirements
Knowledge of best practices in athletic program management and development
A commitment to equity and inclusivity in education
Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills
Strong organizational and management abilities
Knowledge of Washington state learning standards and assessment systems
Experience in staff development, evaluation, and supervision
Ability to work collaboratively with staff, students, parents, and community members
History of data-informed decision-making to improve student outcomes
Preferred Qualifications
Experience as a middle school principal
Experience as an athletic director or significant involvement in school athletics programs
WIAA Athletic Director certification or willingness to obtain
Demonstrated success in improving student achievement through instructional leadership
Experience in developing master schedules that maximize learning opportunities
Expertise in creating systems that support positive student behavior and school culture
Background in professional learning communities and collaborative leadership models
Experience implementing effective RTI/MTSS frameworks to support all students
Knowledge of best practices in middle school curriculum and instruction
Experience working with diverse student populations
Track record of innovative program development and implementation
Experience in budget development and resource allocation
Ability to live in or near the district to fully participate in community events and activities
Essential Responsibilities
Instructional Leadership
Provide visionary instructional leadership throughout the middle school
Lead curriculum development, implementation, and evaluation processes
Facilitate a culture of continuous improvement in teaching and learning
Coordinate professional development to enhance instructional practices
Lead data-informed decision-making processes to improve student outcomes
Observe, coach, and evaluate staff to improve instructional effectiveness
School Culture and Climate
Create and maintain a positive, inclusive school culture where all students and staff feel valued
Develop and implement strategies to build strong relationships among students, staff, and families
Lead initiatives that promote student voice, leadership, and ownership of learning
Ensure a safe, respectful learning environment for all students
Foster school pride and traditions that strengthen community connections
Build strong partnerships with families and engage them in their children's education
Systems and Procedures
Establish clear, consistent systems and procedures for all aspects of school operations
Develop and implement effective student discipline and attendance procedures
Create and maintain master schedules that maximize learning opportunities
Manage school operations, including budget, facilities, and resources
Implement and monitor school improvement plans aligned with district strategic goals
Supervise and evaluate certificated and classified personnel
Athletic Director Responsibilities
Oversee the comprehensive 6-12 athletic program for both middle and high school, including scheduling, budgeting, and operations
Ensure compliance with all WIAA rules and regulations across all athletic programs
Represent Coupeville School District at WIAA league meetings and maintain positive relationships with other league schools
Maintain accurate records for all WIAA requirements, including student eligibility, coaching certifications, and program compliance
Hire, supervise, and evaluate coaches at both the middle and high school levels
Coordinate facility usage for all athletic events and practices
Manage athletic transportation needs in coordination with the transportation department
Develop and implement policies that promote sportsmanship, character development, and competitive excellence
Foster a positive culture of participation and inclusion in athletics at the middle school level while building competitive excellence at the high school level
Serve as a liaison between the athletic program and the broader community
Create a cohesive 6-12 athletic program with clear developmental pathways from middle to high school
Oversee athletic budgets, fundraising efforts, and booster club relationships
Coordinate game management, including officials, event staff, and security
Additional Responsibilities
Oversee student activities and extracurricular programs at the middle school
Develop community partnerships to create authentic learning opportunities for students
Collaborate with district leadership team on district-wide initiatives
Engage actively in community events and activities
Perform other duties as assigned by the superintendent
About the District
Coupeville School District is a public school district serving about 1030 students from preschool through age 21, with four schools on three campuses: Coupeville Elementary, Coupeville Middle and High, and Open Den, our Open Doors Youth Reengagement program.
Coupeville schools are known as a place where students and teachers connect on an individual level. Every student is seen and valued for what they bring to our school community, and our commitment is to guide each student towards an educational foundation that propels them to reach their full potential.
Community engagement thrives in Coupeville, where the town actively rallies behind our students at various events, from the Homecoming Parade down Main Street to cheering for our Coupeville Wolves at home games. The district enjoys partnerships with local nonprofit organizations that fundraise in support of our students. Our consistently positive record for passing enrichment and capital project levies underscores the community's ongoing commitment to our educational mission.
In 2022, following an inclusive strategic planning process involving diverse stakeholders, Coupeville launched its five-year Strategic Plan. This comprehensive road map serves as our guide for decision-making and continuous improvement. Rooted in our vision to prepare every student for their future, our district is guided by core values: Students First, Accountability, Sense of Belonging, Transparency, and Educational Equity.
About Coupeville
Coupeville is located in the heart of Central Whidbey Island, approximately 45 miles north of Seattle and accessible by ferry or bridge. The town was settled in the 1850s by farmers and sea captains, who built the historic wharf and grew crops at the prairies on the edge of town.
Coupeville and Central Whidbey offer peaceful landscapes and a variety of outdoor pursuits. Hikers, bikers, kayakers, and outdoor enthusiasts often take advantage of the area's natural beauty, beaches, and trail systems. Central Whidbey is home to two state parks (Fort Ebey & Fort Casey) as well as Ebey's Landing National Historic Reserve.
In addition to the historic and waterfront aesthetic, the island enjoys a robust arts community; both performing and visual. The Coupeville farmers market is a popular stop for locals and tourists alike. Those visiting Coupeville will find small boutique shops, family farms, incredible restaurants, wineries, and numerous festivals that can be enjoyed all throughout the year.
Whidbey Health Hospital, Island County, and Coupeville School District are the largest employers in Central Whidbey. 10 miles north, you will find the city of Oak Harbor and Naval Air Station Whidbey Island.
Coupeville is a small town with wonderful people and a quaint charm, offering an exceptional quality of life for educational leaders who value community connection and natural beauty.
Unique Benefits of Leading at Coupeville
Instructional Focus with Manageable Size: Lead meaningful instructional improvement in a school where you can know every teacher and student personally. Our size enables you to be truly hands-on with curriculum, instruction, and assessment.
Culture-Building Opportunity: Shape and strengthen a positive school culture in a community that deeply values education and supports its schools.
Athletic Leadership Impact: Lead a comprehensive 6-12 athletic program that creates positive experiences for students at all levels—from first-time middle school participants to varsity high school athletes. Build athletic programs that balance participation, skill development, and competitive growth while fostering school spirit and community pride.
Community-Embedded Leadership: As a principal in Coupeville, you'll be recognized throughout the community and have the opportunity to make a visible impact beyond the school walls.
Small-School Impact with Big Opportunities: Our size means you'll know every student by name while still leading innovative programs that rival much larger districts.
Supportive Professional Environment: Work with dedicated educators in a collaborative atmosphere where your leadership will be valued and respected.
Ocean-Side Innovation: Create learning experiences that take advantage of our unique island setting, from environmental science to community partnerships.
Quality of Life: Experience the rare combination of professional challenge and personal fulfillment in one of Washington's most beautiful communities.
Compensation and Terms of Employment
The contract term is from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026. Salary range $160,014 - $189,195 commensurate with experience and qualifications. Coupeville School District offers an excellent benefits package.
Application Requirements
Cover Letter (addressing qualifications and athletic program vision)
Resume
Three current letters of recommendation
Copy of administrative credentials
Completed District Application Form
Application Timeline
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled
First Round Interviews: 1st Screening May 1, 2025
Position Begins: July 1, 2025
Application Procedure
Apply online at https://www.coupeville.k12.wa.us/departments/human-resources/employment-opportunities
Candidates of Diversity Are Strongly Encouraged to Apply
Coupeville School District welcomes, values and promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion in its workforce. Candidates from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. This is in alignment with our CSD Equity Commitment Statement: "Whether about race, religion, language, immigration status, culture, sexual orientation, gender identity, class, or ability, or a combination of these, we know that students deserve to be honored and respected for who they are. Coupeville Schools is committed to providing a safe, equitable, and inclusive working and learning community for all."
Coupeville School District does not discriminate in any programs or activities on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups.
For questions regarding this position, please contact:
Dr. Kris McDuffy, Senior HYA Associate
email: kristinemcduffy@hyasearch.com
phone: 360-391-4934
Mr. John Bash, Senior HYA Associate
email: johnbash@hyasearch.com
phone: 360-269-8224
Disclaimer: This job description indicates the general nature and essential duties and responsibilities of work to be performed by someone in this position. It does not contain a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees to do this job.
Coupeville School District does not discriminate in any programs or activities on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. The board designates the superintendent to serve as the district’s coordinator regarding: Title IX; Section 504/ADA; Civil Rights Compliance and to handle questions and investigate any complaints communicated to the district of alleged discrimination. Superintendent, 501 S Main, Coupeville, WA, 98239, phone: 360.678.2404.