School Principals
School principals are the leaders who run everything behind the scenes at your school, from managing teachers and creating class schedules to handling budgets and ensuring everyone's safety. They use digital tools and data analytics to track student progress, coordinate with parents and teachers, and make important decisions about curriculum and school policies. This role requires strong leadership skills, a background in education, and the ability to juggle multiple responsibilities while creating a positive learning environment. Many principals work in collaborative teams and often have flexible schedules that include evening events and community meetings.
Did you know?
Most states require specific administrative licenses or master's degrees in educational leadership, along with teaching experience and ongoing professional development.
At a glance
Typical average pay
$107,100 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top skill
Speaking
Things to consider
Budget Management and Funding Challenges
Administrators must skillfully manage limited budgets while navigating complex funding sources including federal, state, and local revenue streams.
Accountability and Performance Standards
School leaders face increasing pressure to meet federal and state accountability measures, including standardized test scores and graduation rates.
Key responsibilities
Teach classes or courses to students.
Determine the scope of educational program offerings, and prepare drafts of course schedules and descriptions to estimate staffing and facility requirements.
Plan and develop instructional methods and content for educational, vocational, or student activity programs.
Review and approve new programs, or recommend modifications to existing programs, submitting program proposals for school board approval as necessary.
Write articles, manuals, and other publications, and assist in the distribution of promotional literature about facilities and programs.