Careers in Education— The Principal

An education administrator with a background in teaching and coaching, Andrew Jordan serves as principal of a 175-student high school. Trained in his field, Andrew Jordan holds both an MA in educational leadership and an Ed.S from Western Illinois University. Mr. Andy Jordan is currently working on his C.S.B.O. certificate through University of Illinois Springfield.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that principal positions will expand by 6 percent in the decade from 2014 to 2024. Though pay can vary depending on the individual district and the background of individual candidates, career principals make an average of about $108,000 per year, as of 2020. On the low end, salaries come in at about $84,000, and at the high end, they reach about $133,000.

Before pursuing a career in education leadership and administration, candidates need to secure the necessary credentials and work experience. For example, open positions usually require years of classroom teaching experience and a master’s or doctorate in education administration.

Moreover, it’s important that prospective education leaders be trained in issues of security procedures, including those related to institutional preparedness in the event of an emergency occurring on school grounds. Security and safety planning may also involve crafting policies to address bullying and myriad other issues affecting students.