Power Technical Early College (PTEC) 

Position: Principal 

Reports to: Chief Academic Officer 

Work Year: 215 Days 

Location: 2460 Waynoka Place, Colorado Springs, CO 

Overview 

Power Technical Early College (PTEC), a James Irwin Charter School, is a one-of-a-kind middle and high school dedicated to preparing students for both college and the skilled trades. PTEC integrates Core Knowledge, Direct Instruction, and hands-on CTE (Career and Technical Education) in fields such as welding, construction, engineering, and manufacturing. 

The Principal serves as the instructional and operational leader of the school, responsible for cultivating a school culture that results in academic excellence, strong character, and workforce readiness in every student. 

Qualifications 

• Master’s degree in educational leadership or an equivalent master’s degree that enhances leadership in both academic and technical education (e.g., Engineering, Industrial Technology, or a related field). 
• Minimum of five (5) years of school leadership experience with a proven record of student achievement and positive school culture. 
• Demonstrated experience in one or more of the following: 
• Skilled trades or engineering field 
• Teaching or managing a CTE program 
• Supervising or coordinating technical training, apprenticeships, or workforce partnerships 
• Strong understanding of Explicit Instruction, Direct Instruction (DI), and Core Knowledge philosophy and implementation. 
• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills. 
• Ability to lead collaboratively and build strong relationships with students, staff, and community partners. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

Instructional Leadership 

• Ensure high-quality implementation of Explicit Instruction, Direct Instruction, and Core Knowledge content across all academic programs. 
• Supervise and evaluate all teaching staff, including both academic and CTE instructors. 
• Lead data-driven instructional improvement through regular classroom observations, coaching, and analysis of student performance data. 
• Promote rigorous academics integrated with hands-on, industry-relevant technical education. 
• Support teacher professional development, focusing on Explicit and Direct Instruction, and classroom management (CHAMPS). 

Career and Technical Education (CTE) Leadership 

• Oversee all trade and technical programs, ensuring compliance with CTE standards and alignment with workforce needs. 
• Build and sustain partnerships with local employers, trade unions, colleges, and industry organizations to enhance internships, apprenticeships, and postsecondary opportunities. 
• Ensure all CTE pathways are current, safe, and aligned with industry certifications and expectations. 
• Supervise CTE staff in maintaining safe, efficient, and productive lab environments. 

School Culture and Student Development 

• Lead a school culture that embodies PTEC’s mission of character, craftsmanship, and leadership. 
• Model and reinforce James Irwin’s HIRRE pillars—Honesty, Integrity, Respect, Responsibility, and Excellence. 
• Ensure consistent implementation of behavior expectations, restorative practices, and positive student support systems. 
• Foster a sense of pride and professionalism among students, helping them understand the dignity and importance of skilled work. 

Operations and Compliance 

• Oversee daily school operations, scheduling, and supervision of all activities and staff. 
• Ensure safety protocols and building security measures are upheld in both academic and technical settings. 
• Manage budgets responsibly and in collaboration with the network CFO and Facilities team. 
• Ensure compliance with district, state, and federal regulations including CDE and CTE requirements. 
• Lead school accreditation and renewal processes in coordination with James Irwin Charter Schools, JICS CEO, and the authorizing district. 

Family and Community Engagement 

• Maintain open and proactive communication with parents, students, and community members. 
• Represent PTEC to external partners, local businesses, higher education institutions, and community organizations. 
• Encourage staff participation in school and community events that strengthen PTEC’s mission and visibility. 

Leadership and Collaboration 

• Serve as a collaborative member of the James Irwin Charter Schools Leadership Team, contributing to network-wide initiatives and strategic planning. 
• Mentor and develop assistant principals, CTE coordinators, and teacher leaders. 
• Demonstrate a servant-leadership mindset, fostering unity and shared purpose across departments. 
• Maintain a visible and approachable presence among students, staff, and parents. 

Personal Attributes 

• Strong moral character and commitment to modeling professionalism and integrity. 
• Deep respect for both academic and technical education as equally vital to student success. 
• Innovative thinker with the ability to unite diverse teams toward a common goal. 
• Steady under pressure, decisive, and mission-driven. 

Compensation and Benefits 

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.  Contact Maria Ramos for more information. 
• Full employee benefits including health, dental, vision, and PERA retirement participation. 
• Professional development opportunities within the James Irwin Charter Schools network. 

To Apply 

Submit a letter of interest, résumé, and references to: 

James Irwin Charter Schools Talent Manager 

Maria Ramos 

Maria.ramos@jamesirwin.org 

Interviews will begin toward the end of January or early February 2026.