What is a school principal?
No one likes being sent to the principal’s office, but the principal is just trying to do things that are best for the students. Principals help direct academic programs and activities that give students the opportunity to succeed. They also supervise teachers, counselors and librarians, and monitor students’ progress. A great principal is a sign of a good school.

How much education do you need?
Most principals require a master’s degree or Ph.D., M.D. or J.D. (law degree).

Does this career fit your personality type?
This career is great for enterprising, social and conventional types.

SKILLS YOU NEED

Time Mastery Time is ticking! In this career it’s important to stay on schedule and get important work done before the bell rings! Leadership Principals lead with authority but they must also gain the respect of students and teachers to be successful. Brain Power Keeping students safe and productive is a big part of being a school principal. That means thinking through and solving tough issues. Writing Good writing skills are essential to communicating well with students, teachers, parents and community members. Creativity Creative thinking can help principals develop unique solutions for problems in the school. Teamwork Great principals must work effectively with teachers, parents and staff to reach a common goal together — student success. Math Principals have to worry about the finances of the school, and that means some serious number crunching throughout the year. Doing Good Schools must meet the educational needs of a community, and principals are often front and center in addressing those needs.

Instructions

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