School Principal
A school principal is an education administrator who oversees the day-to-day operations of an elementary school, middle school or high school. He or she offers instructional leadership to everyone in the school. This includes the administrative staff, faculty and students. The role of a school principal is that of a guide to students, as well as a disciplinarian. There is much more to the position than that, however. It is a complex job that offers numerous challenges, each day different from the day before.
The principal of a school acts as a manager of the entire institution. He or she is involved with the hiring and evaluation of faculty, ensuring that each teacher is held to the highest standard of quality. With the teachers, a principal helps to develop and manage a working and up-to-date curriculum that meets local, state and national standards. A principal must also prepare budgets and regular reports on the school, which includes finances and a record of attendance. The acquisition of learning materials and other school supplies is also managed by the school principal.
Although school policies can be dictated by the principal, he or she does not have ultimate authority in that regard. The principal must, after all, listen to the needs and demands of the school board, parents and students. To that end, the principal must regularly meet with parents and address their many questions and concerns. In this capacity, the principal acts as diplomat.
Those wishing to pursue a career as a school principal must first obtain an advanced degree in education, followed by the completion of principal certification. Some graduate schools offer advanced certification programs, which last anywhere from 18 months to over two years. In addition to the certification, many principal positions require a few years of experience as either a teacher or administrator. It is common for seasoned teachers to seek an advanced degree in order to become a principal. Those who have worked within the school system for many years receive hands-on training in some of the duties required of a principal.
There is currently a great demand for education administrators, particularly licensed principals. This is due to the growing population and need for new schools, as well as the fact that many current principals are expected to retire in the next 10 years. The median income of a school principal is well above the national average, which is one of the most appealing aspects of the job. Although a principal must contend with many challenges and responsibilities, he or she is also well compensated for the work. A high school principal typically makes more money than a middle school principal, while a middle school principal typically earns more than an elementary school principal. (Another coveted job within the system — that of an assistant principal — makes a comparable income and has similar duties.) There has never been a more opportune time to pursue a career as a school principal.
