Superintendent – Phoenix Union High School District, AZ

Job Description

Our Community and Our District 

Phoenix Union High School District (PXU) is one of the largest and most progressive high school districts in the United States serving 27,000 students. With 24 schools, and over 3,500 employees, PXU covers 220-square miles of Arizona’s capital city. If the K-8 students in its 13 elementary partner school districts were included, it would be among the 25 largest unified school districts in the country.

PXU is a portfolio district with eleven comprehensive high schools, six small specialty schools, three micro schools, three support schools, and a digital academy.

Diversity is a hallmark at Phoenix Union which includes 86% Latino, a large refugee population, and students who speak over 100 languages. More than half of the students come from a home where English is not the primary language spoken.

Phoenix Union’s schools of opportunity welcome, love, and inspire all to go places and do things that matter while preparing Every Student for Success in College, Career, and Life.

Job Summary

Phoenix Union High School District seeks a qualified, highly visible, collaborative superintendent to work closely with the school board, students, staff, families, and the community to ensure success for every student. 

Experience with district level responsibilities and familiarity with superintendent expectations within a diverse urban school district and community context is also desired. Phoenix Union seeks a candidate that can communicate effectively with all constituents to promote understanding, transparency, equity and unity.

District Leadership/Teamwork: The Phoenix Union Governing Board is dedicated and committed to the effectiveness of the district in serving all students and families. They are seeking a superintendent to work with them to provide responsible governance, effective leadership, clear communication, and academic excellence. 

Skilled Communicator and Problem-Solver: The Governing Board seeks someone who has the ability to facilitate problem-solving processes where people feel heard and respected. 

Engaged and Visible: The Governing Board seeks a leader who is visible and approachable who is committed to becoming actively involved in schools, events, and the life of the Phoenix Community. 

Minimum Qualities/Qualifications

Master’s Degree
Current Superintendent Certification (or ability/willingness to obtain)
Prior experience as a classroom teacher and school administrator
Effective problem-solving and conflict resolution skills
Demonstrated experience with instructional leadership, data-driven planning and assessment processes
Exceptional leadership, management skills
Strong interpersonal skills, including transparent and respectful interactions with students, staff, families, and community members
Demonstrated exemplary communication skills in listening, speaking, and writing
Models high standards of professional and ethical behavior at all times and operates consistently with integrity and transparency
Demonstrates a growth mindset and values continuous improvement 

Preferred Qualities/Qualifications

Doctoral Degree
District level administrative experience in P-12 education
Experience partnering with community members and local organizations in support of public education
District experience with operations, including financial services, transportation, food services
District experience with facilities planning and school funding (levies/bonds)
Experience working closely with a Board of Directors 

Strengths and Opportunities

Pending: HYA is currently gathering input from students, staff, families and community members regarding strengths and challenges/opportunities facing the district as well as the most important leadership qualities and characteristics desired in the next superintendent. This input will be used to develop a Leadership Profile Report that will be used by the Board in making screening and selection decisions. 

Application Process and Timeline

Confidential Inquiries Please Contact

Compensation

The Phoenix Union High School District Governing Board will negotiate a compensation and benefit package that is regionally competitive based upon education and experience.