Considering the Role
There is frequent media attention about the “poor, overworked principal” . . . so, why do many educators want the position and those who already have it, don’t want to leave it? For many people, it is about a vision; a vision for what could be done to improve a school and how it can be a place where all students have the opportunity to succeed and reach their potential.

Has that been your vision as a teacher and you are considering taking that vision to the next level? You probably have served as a leader and gained leadership experience and skills through committees or as a department chair or team leader. With successful outcomes and increased management experience, you now feel ready to pursue the goal of taking the helm of a school; you have been honing a plan on how to make the school a better place for everyone.

Skills Required
Successful principals need many skills: organization, flexibility, interpersonal skills, decision-maker, and knowledgeable, among others. Most of all, it takes a strong commitment to making a difference and understanding the importance of good leadership. Strong principals spend time in the classrooms of their teachers, making recommendations on instruction, interacting with students, and communicating with parents and others in the community.

Steps to Becoming a Principal

Most states require three to five years of teaching experience to become a principal, but the number of years required varies from state to state. Check certification requirements in your state.

To complement your bachelor of science in education degree and teaching certification, you will need to pursue a master of science in education administration or educational leadership degree.

Principals may be required to pass a national examination, such as the School Leaders Licensure Assessment (SLLA). See sample test.

In larger school districts, you may want to start in an assistant principal or curriculum specialist position to gain experience before assuming a principal position.