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Grade Levels
K–8
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Schools
6
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Students
~2,500
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Employees
~400
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Location
Phoenix, AZ
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About Osborn School District #8
Osborn School District #8 is a proud K–8 urban public school district located in the heart of Phoenix, Arizona. Serving approximately 2,500 students across six schools and employing approximately 400 dedicated staff members, Osborn is committed to providing an equitable, high-quality education to every child in its diverse community.
Osborn School District is recognized for its strong focus on culturally responsive instruction, community partnerships, and academic achievement. The district offers a welcoming learning environment in which every student is empowered to grow, succeed, and become a productive, independent, and self-sufficient citizen.
Position Overview
The Governing Board of Osborn School District #8 is seeking a dynamic, visionary, and experienced educational leader to serve as its next Superintendent. The successful candidate will be a highly energetic education professional with a strong background in K–8 educational leadership who is committed to the well-being and academic success of every student.
The Superintendent serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the district and is responsible for the overall administration of all district operations, ensuring alignment between the Governing Board’s vision and the day-to-day work of schools and staff. The Governing Board understands that candidates may possess varying degrees of experience and seeks the individual who demonstrates the “best fit” for the position and the community.
Position Requirements
Minimum Qualifications
- Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership, School Administration, or a related field from a regionally accredited university
- Current Arizona Superintendent Certificate or the ability to obtain one
- Valid Arizona Fingerprint Clearance Card (required)
- Minimum of five (5) years of successful elementary teaching experience in a public school setting
- Minimum of five (5) years of experience as a principal or district-level administrator
- Experience leading in a diverse, urban public school environment
Preferred Qualifications
- Doctorate in Education (Ed.D. or Ph.D.) from an accredited university
- Prior experience as a school district Superintendent or cabinet level administrator
- Demonstrated experience in K–8 curriculum design, instructional program development, and data-driven decision making
- Knowledge of school finance, budget management, and Arizona school law
- Proven track record of developing community partnerships and working relationships with neighborhood, city, and state leaders
- Experience with federal programs, grant writing, and district operations (facilities, transportation, food services)
- Familiarity with National Institute for Excellence in Teaching (NIET) TAP system for teacher and student advancement framework
- Bilingual (English and Spanish)
The Governing Board Seeks a Superintendent Who…
The Governing Board is seeking a leader who demonstrates the following characteristics and competencies:
Leadership & Vision
- Develops, advocates for, and enacts a shared mission, vision, and core values focused on high-quality education and the well-being of each student.
- Acts ethically and consistently according to professional norms, modeling high expectations and personal integrity.
- Brings a passionate, forward-looking vision for the future of K–8 education.
- Demonstrates stability and consistency in previous leadership positions and professional responsibilities.
- Recognizes and cultivates the potential and strengths in others.
Academic Programs & Student Success
- Is deeply committed to the well-being and academic achievement of all students as the primary factor in district decision-making.
- Has a proven record of developing and implementing programs that meet the diverse needs of all students across a K–8 learning environment.
- Brings enthusiasm for student-centered programs and a commitment to supporting the growth and success of every child.
- Has experience in curriculum planning and instruction and is dedicated to implementing programs that enhance student learning.
- Acts as an agent of continuous improvement in pursuit of the district’s educational goals.
- Is knowledgeable of current Arizona State Standards, state assessment protocols, and Arizona educational statutes.
Communication & Community Relations
- Demonstrates strong interpersonal skills that foster positive, accessible relationships with staff, parents, students, and community members.
- Strives for equity of opportunity and promotes culturally responsive practices throughout the district.
- Cultivates an inclusive, caring, and supportive school community.
- Engages families and the community in meaningful, reciprocal, and mutually beneficial ways to promote student success.
- Has experience collaborating with community organizations, local businesses, and civic leaders.
- Demonstrates effective oral and written communication skills that facilitate productive interaction with schools and the broader community.
Decision Making & Operations
- Seeks areas of agreement to build common ground and consensus among diverse stakeholders.
- Has a management style that addresses complex problems in a rational, consistent, and fair manner.
- Has expertise in school law, Arizona school finance, fiscal planning, federal programs, grant writing, and district operations including facilities, transportation, and food services.
- Values and actively solicits staff input, engaging employees and the community in the development of district goals and priorities.
- Models accountability, honesty, and integrity and holds others to the same high standards.
- Demonstrates a willingness to work collaboratively and communicate openly with the Governing Board to form a solid governance team.
- Has a willingness to become an active and contributing member of both the district and the broader Phoenix community.
Staff Development & Human Resources
- Has experience leading or coordinating staff development programs that build instructional capacity across a K–8 district.
- Demonstrates a commitment to recruiting, retaining, and supporting a strong, diverse teaching and support staff.
- Exhibits sensitivity for diverse views, opinions, and cultural backgrounds.
- Builds trust and maintains positive working relationships with all district personnel.
Salary & Contract Terms
The salary and benefit package for the successful candidate will be determined during contract negotiations and will be based on experience and professional preparation. The District is a member of the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS).
Search Timeline
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Milestone
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Date
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Vacancy Announced
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April 23, 2026
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Deadline for Applications
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May 8th, 2026
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Applicant Screening with Governing Board
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May 11th-May 12th, 2026
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First Round Interviews
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May 17th, 2026
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Community Forum & Executive Session
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May 18th, 2026
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Governing Board Approves New Contract
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May 26th, 2026
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Incoming Superintendent Assumes Duties
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July 1, 2026
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How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit the following materials:
- Completed application
- Letter of interest to the Governing Board that addresses goals for the first year
- Current résumé
- Copies of applicable licenses and certificates
- Official transcripts (or unofficial transcripts pending formal offer)
- Three (3) current professional references
For more information, please visit: www.osbornschools.org
Osborn School District #8 is an Equal Opportunity Employer