Union County Educational Services Commission
Westfield, NJ
School Principal
Westlake School
School Year 2026-2027
Union County Educational Services Commission is a public school district in Westfield, NJ that was established to provide innovative and cost-effective programs for students enrolled in the 21 member school districts in Union County. The Commission is currently seeking a candidate to fill a Principal anticipated vacancy at Westlkae School, a program for middle and high school students with cognitive impairments, physical and multiple disabilities, and autism spectrum disorders.
Position Overview:
The Principal provides overall leadership, management, and direction for Westlake School. Reporting to the Superintendent , the Principal is responsible for the academic, behavioral, and social-emotional programming of the school, as well as staff supervision, compliance, and family partnerships.
* Provide visionary instructional leadership, ensuring all programming reflects evidence-based practices, including Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), for students with autism and multiple disabilities.
* Supervise, evaluate, and mentor certified teachers, teacher assistants, and related services providers to foster professional growth and instructional excellence.
* Lead and participate in IEP team meetings, multidisciplinary evaluation, and eligibility determinations in collaboration with families and staff.
* Direct the development, implementation, and fidelity monitoring of behavior intervention plans and school-wide positive behavior support systems,
* Foster a welcoming, inclusive school culture that prioritizes student dignity, safety, and belonging.
* Manage school operations, including scheduling, staffing, budget oversight, and facilities coordination.
* Establish and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with families, community stakeholders, and outside service providers.
* Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local special education laws, regulations, and reporting requirements.
* Collect, analyze, and use student outcome data to drive instructional decisions and school improvement planning.
* Lead professional development initiatives focused on ABA methodology, autism best practices, and differentiated instruction.
* Support crisis prevention and intervention protocols, ensuring staff are trained and systems are in place.
Qualifications:
* Master's Degree in Educational Leadership or related discipline issued by an accredited college or university, Doctorate preferred.
* Valid Principal Certification issued by the New Jersey Department of Education.
* BCBA preferred.
* Minimum of 5 years of experience in special education, with direct experience serving students with autism spectrum disotder adm/or multiple disabilities.
* Demonstrated knowledge of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) principles and their application in educational settings.
* Experience with IEP development, facilitation, and compliance in accordance with IDEA.
* Proven ability to lead, coach, and evaluate instructional and support staff.
* Strong written and oral communication skills.
* Experience as a building-level administrator in a special education school or program.
* Familiarity with augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems and assistive technology.
* Training in Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) at the school-wide level.
* Experience with staff training and development in ABA methodology.
* Knowledge of New Jersey education law and Chapter 14 regulations.
Description:
* Available September 1, 2026
* Full-Time, 12-month Position
* Comprehensive Family Medical, Dental, and Prescription Benefits.
* New Jersey State Pension Enrollment (TPAF)
* Professional Development & Tuition Reimbursement Programs.
* Salary: $130,492 - $176,997 (based on experience)
Qualified candidates are invited to complete the online application to be considered for an interview.
Thank you for your interest!