Darlington County School District
Excellence in Teaching & Learning for Each Child, Every Day
Now Hiring: Principal
J.L. Cain Elementary School 240-Day / 12-Month Administrative Position
Darlington County School District is seeking a proven instructional leader to serve as Principal of J. L. Cain Elementary School. At the center of this role is a clear responsibility: building a strong academic foundation for every child. This is not about maintaining the status quo. This is about leading for excellence. J.L. Cain Elementary School is where the work begins. Literacy. Numeracy. Habits of learning. This role requires a leader who will set a high bar, align systems to that expectation, and ensure every classroom delivers results for student—grounded in high-quality instructional materials and evidence-based practices, including the Science of Reading.
What This Leader Will Do
Lead for Student Success
* Ensure every student develops a strong academic foundation in reading, writing, and mathematics
* Drive measurable gains in student achievement and growth across all grade levels
* Ensure every child reads on grade level and is prepared for the next stage of learning
* Lead the effective implementation of high-quality instructional materials (HQIM) aligned to state standards
* Ensure literacy instruction reflects the Science of Reading, including phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension
* Build systems of support that respond early, consistently, and effectively
* Reduce chronic absenteeism and increase student engagement
Build and Support Strong Teams
* Recruit, develop, and retain high-quality educators
* Set clear expectations for instructional excellence in every classroom
* Provide direct, actionable feedback that strengthens implementation of HQIM and evidence-based literacy practices
* Lead focused, data-driven professional learning aligned to student needs and district priorities
* Build a culture of accountability, consistency, and continuous improvement
Partner with Families and Community
* Engage families as essential partners in student success
* Communicate clearly and consistently about progress and expectations
* Provide families with tools to support literacy and learning at home
* Build trust through strong relationships and responsiveness
* Strengthen partnerships that support student learning and well-being
* Student success starts with strong foundations— and grows through strong partnerships.
Steward Resources with Integrity
* Align people, time, and resources to academic priorities
* Maintain safe, structured, and well-managed school operations
* Ensure compliance with district, state, and federal expectations
Who We're Seeking
We are seeking a leader who:
* Believes excellence is the standard and builds systems that deliver it
* Sees elementary school as the foundation for all future success—and leads accordingly
* Demonstrates a proven record of improving student achievement and growth
* Understands the urgency of early literacy and the effective implementation of the Science of Reading
* Leads with clarity, courage, and purpose
* Builds trust with students, staff, and families
* Translates vision into disciplined, measurable results
Qualifications
* South Carolina Elementary Principal Certification
* Master's degree required; advanced degree preferred
* Minimum five (5) years successful teaching and/or school leadership experience
* Successful experience as a principal or assistant principal preferred
* Demonstrated record of improving academic performance and school culture
Compensation
* Base salary begins at $87,355, commensurate with experience and credentials, according to the DCSD Administrative Salary Schedule
* Comprehensive benefits package including state retirement and health insurance
* Competitive administrative contract (240-day position)
* Darlington County School District values strong leadership and invests in those who deliver results for students.
J.L. Cain Elementary School deserves leadership that is focused, disciplined, and committed to excellence.
If you are ready to build strong academic foundations through high-quality instruction and evidence-based practice, we encourage you to apply.
Because What Happens Here Shapes Everything That Comes Next.
Click HERE to apply through the Darlington County School District Human Resources portal.
#J-18808-Ljbffr