Description

Theodore Roosevelt School
Fort Apache, Arizona
National Search – 2026

The Theodore Roosevelt School
(TRS), a Cognia-accredited Tribally
Controlled Grant School serving
grades 6–8 in Fort Apache, Arizona,
invites applications for the position
of Chief School Administrator
(CSA)/Principal.

Located in the scenic White
Mountains of Arizona within the
sovereign White Mountain Apache
Tribal lands, TRS is a culturally
grounded institution dedicated to
empowering students through
academic excellence rooted in Ndee
(Apache) knowledge, language, and
identity.

Following a successful recovery from past instability, TRS is positioned for sustained growth.
The Governing Board seeks a seasoned executive leader ready to build on institutional progress
and lead the next phase of academic advancement, operational strength, and long-term stability.

The Opportunity

This is an executive leadership role requiring proven experience, strong operational acumen, and
cultural competency.

The CSA/Principal serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the school and reports directly to the
Governing Board. The successful candidate will lead instruction, oversee operations, strengthen
staff systems, and advance measurable academic growth aligned with the BIE One Plan.

Key Responsibilities

Lead instructional improvement and literacy growth
Oversee curriculum and assessment systems
Supervise and evaluate personnel
Manage budget and ensure fiscal integrity
Ensure compliance with BIE, federal, and tribal regulations

Oversee facilities, transportation, and operational systems
Serve as advisor to the Governing Board
Engage families and community partners
Advance technology integration and professional development goals

Requirements

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements

Valid Arizona Administrator Certification (or eligibility)
Master’s degree or higher in Educational Leadership or related field
At least five years of successful administrative leadership experience
Demonstrated academic improvement results
Experience in staff supervision and financial oversight

Preferred

Experience in tribally controlled or BIE schools
Turnaround or stabilization leadership experience
Cultural competency working with Native communities
Accreditation and compliance experience

Compensation & Benefits

Salary aligned to TRS Administrative Salary Schedule (approved April 2, 2025).
Range: $95,000 – $132,000 depending on degree and years of service
Administrative Salary Schedule

Performance Incentive:
Up to 20% additional annual compensation based on documented achievement of Professional
Development and BIE One Plan School Improvement Committee goals.
Example:
At $95,000 salary, potential additional performance compensation equals $19,000 annually.

Benefits include:
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) retirement plan
Paid leave and holidays
Professional development support
Relocation assistance (if applicable)

The Community
Fort Apache offers four distinct seasons, mountain scenery, Ponderosa pine forests, and abundant
outdoor recreation including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The White Mountain Apache
community values education, culture, and strong leadership committed to student success.
This is an opportunity to lead in a mission-driven, culturally rich environment where leadership
makes generational impact.

Search Timeline
Board Notified: February
11, 2026
Search Launch: February
25, 2026
National Advertisement: 90
days
Target Start Date: June
2026

How to Apply
Submit:
Letter of Interest
Resume or CV
Copy of Administrator Certification
Three Professional References
Evidence of academic improvement results (if available)
Applications will be reviewed throughout the 90-day national search period.
Darin Nez – Human Resources Director / Business Manager
DNez@trswarriors.com
(928) 338-4464

Equal Opportunity & Tribal Preference
Theodore Roosevelt School is an Equal Opportunity Employer. As a Tribally Controlled Grant
School, TRS adheres to Tribal Employment Preference policies, giving first preference to
qualified enrolled members of the White Mountain Apache Tribe, followed by other qualified
Native American applicants
Administrative Salary Schedule
Lead with purpose.
Honor culture.
Advance achievement.
Build stability.
Theodore Roosevelt School seeks a leader ready to make a lasting impact.