Work often includes attending school functions after hours, such as basketball games, concerts, plays, parent conferences and school board meetings. Having a visible presence shows interest and dedication to students. Often problems arise which need immediate attention, such as a student disciplinary issue or a call from a worried parent whose child is struggling in the classroom..
Legislative emphasis on measurable student outcomes requires principals to collaborate with teachers to set and achieve high-performance goals. Principals must always be ready to answer questions from the public about how the school is rectifying any achievement gaps between diverse groups of students and performance overall.
Education Requirements
If you already have classroom teaching experience, you will have a jump-start on this career. Prior teaching experience, along with a Master of Science degree, is typically preferred or needed for hire. First, you must obtain a bachelor’s degree, preferably in education. Many aspiring principals spend a few years teaching to better understand student needs and teacher concerns. Although state licensing requirements vary, you will need a master’s degree in education administration for a school administrator license.
While working toward your master’s, you will study learning theories, multiculturalism, curriculum design, ethics, laws and regulations, state and federal standards, management techniques, teacher evaluation, budgeting and facilities management. Other requirements may include an internship and maintaining a portfolio of accomplishments in the program. Most states also expect principal candidates to pass a background check.
Industry
Principals work in elementary, middle or high schools in the private or public sector. Most principal jobs are in the public schools. They typically work long hours and attend many events and meetings outside the normal school day. Principals find it rewarding to work with children and families, but the job can also be stressful. Principals are under intense pressure to meet achievement standards, solve budget shortfalls, prevent bullying, continually update technology and hire qualified teachers.
Years of Experience
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for a principal in 2016 with a master’s degree and at least five years of experience is $92,510 per year. That means half of all principals earned more than that amount, and the other half earned less. Principals in Connecticut earned the highest median salary of $127,110. After working in the field for a while, some principals get more education, such as a doctorate, and become a school superintendent, overseeing the operations of an entire school district.
Job Growth Trend
Demand for principals is expected to increase by 8 percent between 2016 and 2026. That is about the same percentage increase as all other jobs. Several factors influence the number of expected principal openings, such as projected enrollment, available funding for new schools and the retirement of principals in the baby boomer demographic.
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