Director and Principal - University Laboratory High School

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign invites applications for the position of Director and Principal at University Laboratory High School (Uni High), a prestigious, selective-admission public laboratory school that serves as a model for innovative education. As the primary leader of Uni High, the Director will provide strategic and educational leadership in alignment with the school’s mission and the broader vision of the University, overseeing all operational aspects of the school. This is a full-time, benefits-eligible, academic professional position, with a start date in July 2027. Duties Responsibilities Mission and Vision Leadership Uphold and advance the mission of Uni High to enhance student lives through innovative learning, discovery, and community engagement. Lead efforts to ensure continued excellence in student achievement, transformative curriculum and pedagogy, and impactful public engagement at local, state, and national levels. Strategic Oversight Guide and manage all academic, administrative, financial, and operational aspects of the school, ensuring compliance with state, federal, and University policies, regulations, and standards. Instructional Leadership Provide guidance on faculty and staff recruitment, retention, development, and evaluation in collaboration with Human Resources. Lead the annual review of academic programs, ensuring compliance with best practices and implementing improvements based on faculty feedback and strategic goals. Support faculty with their lab mission endeavors. Committee Leadership Lead and participate in various committees, including those focused on school operations, curriculum, labor, technology, and advancement. Act as a liaison to the Uni Advisory Board, the PTSA Board, the Multicultural Parents Advisory Group, the Uni Faculty Organization, and other key community stakeholders. Financial Management Administer state and federal grant programs; oversee the preparation of the school’s annual budget and multi-year financial projections for presentation to the Provost’s Office. Collaborate with the Operations Coordinator to monitor departmental budgets and work closely with the Advancement Office to secure funding support. Admissions Oversight The Director will have the final say in all admissions decisions, ensuring alignment with the school’s mission, strategic goals and capacity. Community Engagement Serve as the school’s advocate to the University, local community, and state, cultivating strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders. Lead the development of long-range plans addressing facilities, student services, and culturally responsive programs that ensure equitable access to education. School Environment: Cultivate a welcoming, respectful school community that promotes collaboration, positive relationships, and belonging for all, while supporting student and staff mental health and well-being through proactive leadership, supportive practices, and appropriate resources.