How to Become a Principal (Lead Schools, Shape Minds!)

If you’ve ever aspired to lead an educational institution or wondered what it takes to become a principal, you’ve landed on the right page.

In this guide, we’ll delineate the EXACT steps you need to embark on your journey towards becoming a principal. We’ll address:

The skills you need.
The educational path that can propel you towards this goal.
How to secure a position as a principal.

So, whether you’re an educational novice or a seasoned professional aiming for career progression, stay tuned.

We’re about to disclose the roadmap to becoming a principal.

Let’s get started!

Contents show

Steps to Become a Principal

Step 1: Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree in Education

To begin your journey to become a principal, the first step is to earn a bachelor’s degree in education or a related field such as child development, special education, or curriculum and instruction.

This four-year degree typically covers topics like educational psychology, classroom management, and instructional strategies, among others.

During your undergraduate study, you will also gain hands-on experience through student teaching internships.

This gives you the chance to learn from experienced teachers and apply the educational theories and teaching methods you’ve learned in your coursework.

It’s also beneficial to take courses or electives in educational leadership or administration to get a basic understanding of what is involved in school management.

This will provide a solid foundation on which to build your future career as a principal.

Remember, your goal during this time is to not just earn a degree, but to also gain valuable experience and skills that you’ll need as a principal.

This includes leadership skills, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work with a diverse range of students, teachers, and parents.

Step 2: Acquire a Teaching License

Before you can become a principal, you must start your career in education as a teacher.

This requires acquiring a teaching license, which demands a bachelor’s degree in education or a related field and completion of a teacher preparation program.

Once you have your bachelor’s degree, you will need to complete a state-approved teacher education program.

These programs cover the theory and practice of education and require student teaching experiences.

Upon completion, you are eligible to take the teaching licensure exam, which varies by state.

The licensure exam generally tests your teaching knowledge and skills.

It includes two parts: a general teaching knowledge exam and a content-specific exam in the area you wish to teach.

After acquiring a teaching license, you should gain some experience in the classroom.

This experience is crucial as it provides insight into the daily operations of a school, curriculum planning, and the needs and challenges of students.

Furthermore, it is a requirement for most graduate programs and principal licensure programs.

Remember that teaching licenses must be maintained through ongoing professional development and may need to be renewed every few years.

As an aspiring principal, you should aim for excellence in teaching to understand what it takes to create an effective learning environment.

Step 3: Gain Teaching Experience

Before transitioning into a leadership role like a principal, it is crucial to gain firsthand experience in the classroom.

Start your career in education as a teacher, giving you the opportunity to understand the dynamics of a classroom and the educational needs of students.

This will also enable you to develop the interpersonal skills required to interact with students, parents, and other teachers.

In addition to teaching, take on other roles like a department head or curriculum coordinator to understand the administrative aspects of running a school.

During this time, you will learn to manage staff, make decisions about curriculum, work with parents, and handle discipline issues.

These experiences will prove valuable when you become a principal.

In most states, principals are required to have a few years of teaching experience.

The length of this requirement varies, but typically you should expect to spend at least three to five years in the classroom.

Remember to keep a record of your achievements during this time, as these accomplishments will be important when you apply for principal positions.

From improving student test scores to implementing successful programs, these achievements will highlight your leadership abilities and commitment to improving education.

Step 4: Pursue Further Education and Obtain a Master’s Degree

Once you have obtained a bachelor’s degree and have gained some experience in the field of education, the next step would be to pursue further education and acquire a master’s degree.

This could either be a Master’s in Education Administration or in Educational Leadership.

These programs provide comprehensive knowledge of school administration, educational policies, and leadership skills, all of which are essential for the role of a principal.

During your master’s program, you will likely focus on curriculum development, educational law and regulations, and the management of teachers and other staff.

Some programs may also include courses on school finance, student affairs, and community relations.

These courses are designed to equip future principals with the ability to effectively run a school and help its students thrive.

In addition, earning a master’s degree in these fields often involves completing an internship or practicum, which allows you to gain practical experience in a leadership role under the supervision of an experienced principal or other school administrator.

This hands-on experience is invaluable and can significantly enhance your understanding of the role and its responsibilities.

Remember that some states may require principals to have a master’s degree, while others may require a school administrator license, or both.

So, ensure to research and understand the specific requirements in your state or the region where you wish to work.

Step 5: Develop Leadership Skills

As an aspiring principal, it’s important to refine your leadership skills, as you’ll be leading not just students, but faculty and staff as well.

You can start by taking on more responsibilities in your current teaching role or pursuing leadership roles within educational organizations or associations.

You can also consider pursuing formal leadership training, such as attending workshops, seminars, or even enrolling in a leadership course.

Some universities offer leadership programs specifically for educators.

These programs often cover topics like strategic planning, conflict resolution, team building, and communication.

Furthermore, understanding educational policies, curriculum standards, and school administration procedures is also part of being an effective leader.

You can gain this understanding through professional development courses or gaining firsthand experience in administrative roles.

Remember, being a good leader also means being a good listener.

Practice active listening skills to understand the needs and concerns of your team, and develop a collaborative environment where everyone feels heard and valued.

It’s also important to keep up with the latest educational trends and issues.

Staying informed will not only help you make informed decisions but also establish your credibility as a leader in the educational sector.

Finally, always be open to feedback and continually seek to improve.

The best leaders know there is always room for growth and improvement.

Working on these leadership skills will prepare you for the challenges and responsibilities that come with being a principal.

Step 6: Understand School Administration and Finance

In your journey to becoming a principal, it’s critical to develop a firm understanding of school administration and finance.

This includes learning about educational policy, school budgeting, human resources for educators, and the intricacies of school law.

These subjects are often covered in detail in administrative credential programs or master’s programs in education administration.

As a principal, you will be responsible for managing school operations, which may include budgeting, staffing, and maintaining school facilities.

Understanding how to effectively manage a school’s budget is crucial, as it directly impacts the resources available for student learning and staff salaries.

It’s also essential to understand how to use financial data to drive decision-making.

For instance, you will need to know how to allocate resources to the areas where they are most needed.

In addition to understanding the financial aspects of running a school, a successful principal also needs to be well-versed in human resources management.

This includes not only hiring and retaining quality teachers and staff but also handling any personnel issues that may arise.

Finally, it’s necessary to understand the various local, state, and federal laws that apply to schools.

This may include laws related to student privacy, special education, and school safety.

Remember, every school district may have different regulations and processes, so it’s essential to learn about the specific policies in the district where you plan to work.

By gaining a strong understanding of school administration and finance, you will be better prepared to take on the challenges of being a principal.

Step 7: Engage with Educational Leadership Communities

As you progress on your path to becoming a principal, it is important to immerse yourself within educational leadership communities.

These communities can provide you with valuable networking opportunities, mentorship, and resources that could aid your professional development.

You can find such communities by joining professional organizations such as the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) or the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP).

These organizations often offer conferences, workshops, and training programs that are aimed at helping educators develop their leadership skills.

In addition to networking with other educators, you should also actively seek opportunities to mentor and guide younger educators.

This will not only help you build your leadership skills but also give you a broader perspective on the challenges and opportunities in the education sector.

Engaging with these communities also gives you a platform to share your own insights and experiences.

Contributing to the collective knowledge and learning of the community is a great way to establish yourself as a thought leader within the field.

Remember that the goal is not just to take from these communities, but also to give back and contribute.

The more active and engaged you are, the more you will benefit and grow as a future principal.

Step 8: Obtain Administrative Licensure/Certification

After gaining experience in the education field, the next step to becoming a principal is to obtain administrative licensure or certification.

The requirements for this will vary depending on your location but most states in the U.S require a school administrator or principal license.

This certification process often involves completing a state-approved certification program.

These programs can typically be found at a graduate level, and are sometimes included as part of a master’s or doctoral degree in education administration or leadership.

They cover topics such as school leadership, educational law, and school finance.

In addition to coursework, you may also be required to complete a supervised internship or practicum that provides practical experience in school administration.

After completing the necessary education requirements, you will likely need to pass a state-administered exam to earn your certification.

Once you have obtained your certification, you will be eligible for administrative roles within schools, including the role of principal.

Keep in mind that most states require principals to participate in continuing education courses to maintain their license.

Therefore, lifelong learning and professional development will continue to be a part of your career as a principal.

Step 9: Gain Experience in School Administration

After earning your graduate degree, it’s important to gain experience in school administration.

This means stepping into roles such as assistant principal, department head, or even district administration.

These positions give you a closer look at how schools are run from an administrative perspective and allow you to understand the challenges and tasks involved in managing a school.

During this time, you should be involved in a wide range of administrative tasks such as developing and implementing school policies, managing staff, overseeing student services, and working closely with teachers and parents.

This experience is crucial in shaping your leadership style and understanding the dynamics of school management.

Remember, being a principal isn’t just about overseeing a school’s operations.

It’s about creating an environment that fosters both academic and personal growth for students.

As such, any roles that allow you to hone your leadership skills, build strong relationships with students, staff, and parents, and ensure the delivery of high-quality education will be beneficial.

Additionally, many states require principals to have a certain number of years of teaching experience, so don’t rush into administrative roles immediately.

Spend some time in the classroom to understand the needs and experiences of teachers and students.

This will equip you with a holistic perspective when you step into a principal’s role.

Step 10: Keep Informed on Educational Policies and Reforms

As a principal, it’s essential to stay up-to-date with the latest educational policies, reforms, and practices that can affect your school.

This can be done by attending professional development workshops, joining professional organizations, and reading academic literature in the field of education.

Educational policies can impact how you run your school, the resources you can access, and even how you interact with students and parents.

Staying informed about these policies enables you to make informed decisions and provide better educational services.

Reforms often indicate a change in educational direction or philosophy.

Understanding these reforms will help you align your school’s goals and objectives with the new expectations.

This might involve changing curriculum, teaching methods, or even the school’s overall structure.

In addition, keeping an eye on the latest research can help you improve your school’s educational outcomes.

For example, studies on classroom management strategies or the impact of technology on learning can provide valuable insights.

To stay informed, you can subscribe to educational journals, participate in online forums, and join local and national educational organizations.

These resources can provide valuable information and offer networking opportunities that can help you become a more effective principal.

Remember, education is a rapidly changing field, and as a principal, you must be a lifelong learner.

Being informed and knowledgeable will not only make you a better leader but also a role model for your staff and students.

Step 11: Apply for Principal Positions

After you have gained adequate experience as a school administrator or assistant principal and have your required certifications, it’s time to start applying for principal positions.

You can check job listings online, in newspapers, or through your network to find open principal positions.

When applying, make sure your resume highlights all the experiences that make you suitable for a principal role.

This includes not only your time in administrative roles, but also your teaching experience, leadership roles, and any relevant accomplishments.

During the application process, ensure you are prepared for the interview stage.

As a school principal, you will be expected to demonstrate your leadership style, your approach to education and student development, your conflict resolution skills, and your vision for the school.

Remember, landing a principal job can take time, and you may face rejections before finding the right fit.

Stay persistent and continue improving your skills and learning from each experience.

Finally, keep in mind that some schools may require a transition period where you work as an assistant principal before moving into the principal role, so be open to these opportunities as they can serve as stepping stones to your ultimate career goal.

Step 12: Prepare for Interviews and Demonstration Projects

When preparing to interview for a principal role, you should be prepared to showcase your leadership style, communication skills, and your knowledge about current education trends and policies.

You should be ready to answer questions about how you handle conflict, support teachers, and manage relationships with parents and the community.

It’s essential to do your homework about the district and the school you’re interviewing with.

Understand their values, mission, curriculum, and the community they serve.

This will allow you to tailor your answers to their specific needs and demonstrate your commitment to their vision.

In addition to traditional interviews, you may be asked to complete a demonstration project.

This could be a presentation on how you would handle a particular situation or challenge at the school, or a plan for how you would improve certain aspects of the school environment.

For these projects, use your previous experience and your knowledge of educational best practices to create a thoughtful, well-reasoned proposal.

Be ready to defend your plan and explain how you would implement it.

Remember, the goal of the interview and demonstration project is to showcase your skills as an educational leader.

Show that you are not only capable of managing a school but that you are also passionate about making a positive impact on students’ lives.

Step 13: Continue Professional Development as a School Leader

Even after becoming a principal, it’s crucial to continue your professional development in the field of educational leadership.

Regularly participating in workshops, seminars, and leadership training can provide you with the latest trends and innovations in education and school administration.

This can be particularly helpful as the field of education is constantly changing with new regulations, technologies, and teaching methods.

Join professional organizations such as the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) or the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP).

These organizations provide resources, networking opportunities, and professional development courses for principals.

They also host conferences where you can meet and learn from other principals.

Additionally, consider pursuing a doctoral degree in Education Leadership or Administration.

This can open up more opportunities for career advancement, such as becoming a superintendent or working at the district level.

Staying committed to learning and development as a school leader can not only boost your career but also positively impact your school community, students, and staff by equipping you with the skills and knowledge to lead effectively.

Principal Roles and Responsibilities

Principals oversee all school operations, including daily activities, building maintenance, and budgeting.

They communicate with school staff, parents, and students regularly and make sure that the school is a safe, productive environment for learning.

They have the following roles and responsibilities:

School Leadership

Lead all aspects of school operations including student learning, administrative, and even janitorial functions.
Create and implement the school’s vision and mission.
Uphold the educational policies and standards of the school district.

Staff Management

Hire, train, and evaluate teachers and staff.
Ensure teachers follow curriculum guidelines.
Provide guidance and support for teachers and staff.

Student Affairs

Oversee student disciplinary matters.
Manage student services like guidance and health programs.
Support and advocate for student learning and achievement.

Parental Communication

Communicate regularly with parents about student progress.
Address parental concerns and complaints.
Engage parents and community members in school events and activities.

Budget and Resources Management

Prepare and manage the school’s budget.
Allocate resources to achieve academic goals.
Ensure maintenance and repair of school facilities.

Curriculum Oversight

Oversee curriculum development and implementation.
Ensure the curriculum meets state and federal standards.
Support teachers in delivering the curriculum effectively.

Professional Development

Implement professional development programs for teachers.
Keep up with latest educational research and trends.
Participate in continuous learning and educational conferences and workshops.

Safety and Discipline

Establish and enforce rules and disciplinary measures.
Ensure a safe learning environment for all students.
Respond to emergencies and crisis situations.

Strategic Planning

Develop and implement strategic plans to achieve educational goals.
Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of strategies and plans.

Community Engagement

Engage with community leaders and organizations to support school programs.
Represent the school at community events and public meetings.
Encourage community involvement in school activities.

Legal Compliance

Ensure compliance with all laws, district policies, and collective agreements.
Understand and apply educational laws and regulations.

What Does a Principal Do?

A Principal is a leader within an educational institution, primarily in elementary, middle, or high schools.

They manage all school activities, coordinate the curriculums, and oversee the overall operations and administration of the school.

Principals collaborate with teachers to develop and maintain high curriculum standards, develop mission statements, and set performance objectives.

They also work with teachers to plan and coordinate lessons and oversee student progress.

Their job involves managing the school budget, ensuring resources are allocated effectively, and making decisions about educational programs and policies.

They also ensure the school’s compliance with all regulations and laws.

Principals play a key role in hiring, training, and evaluating teachers and other staff members.

They also handle disciplinary matters, enforce school and district rules, and manage crisis and emergency situations.

In addition to administrative tasks, principals interact directly with students to encourage academic success, promote good behavior, and resolve any issues or conflicts.

They also communicate regularly with parents about their child’s progress, school policies, and upcoming events.

Principals often represent their school at meetings, conferences, and other educational events, and they work to create a positive and supportive learning environment for all students and staff.

Essential Principal Skills

Leadership: As the figurehead of a school, a principal should possess strong leadership skills to guide teachers, staff, and students towards achieving academic excellence.
Communication: Effective communication is key, as principals interact with teachers, parents, students, and the broader school community. This includes speaking clearly, listening actively, and writing effectively.
Problem-solving: Principals often face complex situations that require creative and effective solutions. They should be able to identify and analyze problems, and implement appropriate solutions.
Decision-making: Principals make numerous decisions that impact the school’s operation and educational outcomes. They should be able to make informed, fair, and strategic decisions.
Education Administration: Principals should understand the operations and administration of a school, including budgeting, scheduling, and compliance with education laws and standards.
Curriculum and Instruction: Understanding the current educational curriculum and instructional methodologies is essential. Principals should stay up-to-date with education trends to ensure their school’s teaching methods are effective and relevant.
Empathy: Principals often deal with sensitive issues involving students, teachers, and parents. The ability to understand and share the feelings of others is crucial.
Time Management: Balancing multiple tasks, from administrative work to meetings with teachers and parents, requires effective time management skills.
Team Building: A successful principal should be able to cultivate a cooperative working environment among teachers and staff, promoting teamwork and mutual respect.
Strategic Planning: Principals must be able to develop and implement strategic plans that align with the school’s mission and goals, ensuring a high-quality education for all students.
Conflict Resolution: Dealing with disagreements or conflicts between students, staff, and parents is a common part of a principal’s role. Effective conflict resolution skills are vital.
Staff Development: Principals are responsible for facilitating professional development for teachers and staff to enhance their skills and abilities.
Student-Centered Focus: Keeping the best interests of the students at the heart of every decision is a vital skill for a principal. They must ensure an environment conducive to learning and student welfare.
Adaptability: With changing educational trends and unexpected situations, principals must be flexible and capable of adapting to new circumstances or requirements.
Technology Skills: With the increasing use of technology in education, principals should be familiar with relevant technologies and how they can be used to enhance the learning experience.

Principal Career Path Progression

The Foundation: Assistant Principal

As a new entrant into school administration, you typically begin your journey as an Assistant Principal.

Your responsibilities at this stage include disciplining students, addressing parents’ concerns, managing schedules, and assisting the principal.

Here’s how to succeed in this role:

Learn Continuously: Develop a strong understanding of school policies, procedures, and education laws.
Build Relationships: Foster strong relationships with teachers, staff, students, and parents.
Leadership Skills: Develop your leadership skills by taking ownership of your responsibilities and showing initiative.

The Ascent: Vice Principal

With experience and proven leadership, you can advance to the role of Vice Principal.

In this role, you will have more responsibilities and autonomy, and you will be involved in more strategic decisions, such as curriculum development, faculty hiring, and budgeting.

Here’s how to excel in this role:

Decision-Making: Develop strong decision-making skills by understanding the implications of your decisions on the school community.
Strategic Planning: Understand the big picture and contribute to the strategic planning of the school.
Conflict Resolution: Master the art of resolving conflicts between students, parents, and teachers in a fair and effective manner.

Reaching New Heights: Principal

Next is the role of Principal.

As a Principal, you are the leader of the school.

You are responsible for the overall administration, including academic programs, student safety, staff management, and community relations.

To succeed as a Principal:

Visionary Leadership: Develop a vision for your school and lead your team towards that vision.
Effective Communication: Communicate effectively with all stakeholders to ensure everyone is aligned with the school’s objectives.
Resource Management: Manage resources efficiently to ensure the school’s smooth operation and financial health.

Beyond the Horizon: Superintendent

If you continue to progress, you may aspire to become a Superintendent.

At this level, you are responsible for multiple schools within a district.

This involves greater strategic decision-making and a broader management scope.

Here’s what to focus on:

Strategic Leadership: Set the direction for the entire school district and ensure all schools follow that direction.
Policy Development: Develop and implement policies that will enhance the quality of education in all schools.
Stakeholder Relations: Build strong relationships with the school board, parents, and community leaders to support your district’s goals.

Pinnacle of Success: State Superintendent or Commissioner of Education

The highest rung on the ladder could be a role like State Superintendent or Commissioner of Education.

In these roles, you are responsible for overseeing all schools in a state, making far-reaching decisions that impact millions of students, and shaping educational policy at a high level.

Principal Salary

Entry-Level Principal

Median Salary: $80,000 – $110,000 per year
Entry-level principals typically have 2-5 years of experience in education administration and may hold a master’s degree in education administration or educational leadership.

Mid-Level Principal

Median Salary: $110,000 – $145,000 per year
Mid-level principals have 5-10 years of experience and often take on more complex responsibilities such as curriculum development and staff management.

Senior Principal

Median Salary: $145,000 – $180,000 per year
Senior principals possess 10+ years of experience and are responsible for leading large schools or multiple smaller schools, making strategic decisions, and mentoring junior administrators.

Lead Principal / School Superintendent

Median Salary: $180,000 – $240,000+ per year
These roles come with significant experience and often involve educational leadership, district-wide management, and strategic decision-making.

Principal of Education / Director of Education / VP of Education

Median Salary: $200,000 – $320,000+ per year
These high-level positions require extensive experience, and deep educational expertise and often involve setting educational strategies for a district or a larger educational institution.

Principal Work Environment

Principals primarily work in educational settings, such as elementary, middle, and high schools, although some also work in preschools and postsecondary institutions.

The work schedule of a principal is often full-time and may extend beyond regular school hours.

They may need to attend school activities and meetings that take place during the evenings and weekends.

Principals’ work can be stressful and demanding as they are responsible for the overall management of their school, including setting educational goals, ensuring the curriculum is implemented effectively, managing staff, and dealing with disciplinary issues.

Despite the challenges, the role of a principal can also be highly rewarding, especially when they witness the academic and personal growth of their students.

After gaining experience as a principal, some may progress to higher positions within the education sector, such as superintendents or education program directors.

FAQs About Becoming a Principal

What is needed to become a principal?

To become a principal, you need to have a solid educational background, usually a master’s degree in education administration or educational leadership.

You also need to have relevant teaching experience, as most states require principals to have worked as teachers.

Additionally, principals typically need to be licensed by the state where they work.

Key skills for this role include leadership, communication, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.

Experience with budgeting and educational program development can also be beneficial.

How long does it take to be a principal?

The time it takes to become a principal can vary depending on your educational path and experience level.

To become a teacher, which is typically the first step, you need to complete a bachelor’s degree in education which typically takes four years.

After gaining teaching experience, you would typically need to earn a master’s degree in education administration or leadership, which usually takes another two years.

Therefore, it can take around ten years or more to become a principal, including both education and experience.

Can I become a principal without being a teacher first?

While it may be technically possible to become a principal without first being a teacher, it is quite uncommon and not typically recommended.

Most states require that principals have prior teaching experience, and this experience is critical for understanding the educational environment, curriculum development, and student needs.

Therefore, having a background in teaching is usually a critical step on the path to becoming a principal.

Is being a principal a stressful job?

Being a principal can be stressful, as it involves significant responsibility, including managing staff, dealing with parents, overseeing the school’s academics and finances, and addressing student behavior issues.

However, it can also be a very rewarding job, as principals have the opportunity to make a significant difference in the education and lives of their students.

Balancing the challenges and rewards of the job often depends on the principal’s stress management skills, support systems, and passion for education.

What are the prospects for principals in the next decade?

The prospects for principals are expected to remain steady over the next decade.

While there may be some variability depending on location and type of school, overall the demand for qualified, effective principals remains high.

As educational standards and policies continue to evolve, principals who are adept at navigating these changes and leading their schools successfully will be in demand.

Conclusion

There it is.

The pursuit to become a principal is a demanding task, but it’s undeniably gratifying.

Equipped with the appropriate skills, education, and resolve, you’re well on your way to make a considerable difference in the field of education.

Keep in mind, the journey may be rigorous, but the possibilities are boundless. Your leadership could set the stage for the next generation of learners, transforming how we perceive and approach education.

So, take that initial leap. Immerse yourself in continuous learning. Connect with other educators. And most importantly, never stop inspiring.

Because the world is eagerly anticipating the positive influence you can bring.

And if you’re seeking personalized advice on starting or enhancing your career as a principal, explore our AI Career Path Advisor.

This complimentary tool is designed to provide tailored suggestions and resources to help you efficiently traverse your career path.

The Laid-Back Life: Careers That Keep the Pressure Off

Wacky Workplaces: The Strangest Jobs You Can Have

Tech Takeover: Jobs Where Humans are Becoming Obsolete

Financially Unshakable: The Most Stable Jobs in Unstable Times

The Thrill of the Challenge: Why Dangerous Jobs Appeal to Many