What Your Resume Should Look Like as an Aspiring High School Principal

In the US, many K-12 principals are quitting their jobs, leading to a shortage of leaders in these institutions. Teacher burnout is one of the main reasons why so many principals, including those in high schools, are calling it quits. In fact, many principals have left the education sector entirely. 

Survey shows that educators are some of the most stressed and burned-out workers in society. Those in leadership roles, including high school principals, are even more stressed out than regular teachers. Under such circumstances, if you’re looking to become a high school principal yourself, you’re making a bold yet welcomed career choice. 

But, the question is, are you ready to take on this role of a high school principal? 

If you're an educator ready to transition into school administration, your resume needs to reflect more than just your teaching experience. Today, we’re here to tell you all about what your resume should look like as an aspiring high school principal. 

The Need for a Doctor of Education Degree

While some states may accept a master’s degree as the minimum requirement, having a doctor of education (Ed.D.) significantly enhances your resume. It demonstrates your deep understanding of educational policies, leadership strategies, and the complex dynamics of school administration.

According to Rockhurst University, the Ed.D. degree, especially with a K-12 leadership concentration, teaches how education is changing as society evolves. Such a qualification prepares you with effective leadership skills that you can use in your role as a high school principal. It prepares you for decision-making at a higher level, ensuring that you can lead with authority and a strong academic foundation. 

If not in-person, an online Ed.D will work just as well. Pursuing an online Ed.D. in K-12 leadership can be a strategic move for educators who want to continue working while furthering their education. This degree focuses on educational leadership, equipping future educational leaders with the tools they need to succeed in higher education and school administration. 

Showcase Your Leadership Experience

Your resume should clearly highlight your leadership experience, both inside and outside the classroom. Schools want to see that you have taken on roles that require decision-making, problem-solving, and strategic planning. If you have experience as a department chair, assistant principal, or instructional coach, these positions should be prominently featured.

Beyond titles, your resume should demonstrate specific achievements. 

Have you led a successful curriculum reform? Implemented policies that improved student engagement? Managed a team of teachers to boost academic performance? 

These are the types of experiences that make a resume stand out. Hiring committees want to see real results – that means you should show how your leadership has positively impacted students and staff.

Emphasize Your Commitment to Student Success

A great high school principal is first and foremost an advocate for students. Your resume should reflect your dedication to improving student outcomes and creating an inclusive, supportive school environment. If you’ve initiated mentorship programs, improved graduation rates, or introduced innovative teaching methods, these accomplishments should be highlighted.

Also, your ability to work with diverse student populations is crucial. High schools today serve students from various cultural, socioeconomic, and academic backgrounds. 

Highlight Your Administrative and Organizational Skills

Running a high school is as much about administration as it is about education. Budget management, policy implementation, staff development, and school safety planning are all part of a principal’s responsibilities. 

Your resume should include any experience you have in these areas, even if it comes from committee or leadership work within your school district. For instance, if you have experience managing a school budget or overseeing hiring processes, these responsibilities should be detailed in your resume. 

Administrative skills demonstrate that you are prepared to handle the logistical side of school leadership, which is just as important as your instructional expertise.

Showcase Your Communication and Community Engagement Skills

A principal serves as the bridge between the school and the larger community. Your ability to communicate effectively with teachers, parents, and local stakeholders is a key part of your role. 

Your resume should highlight any initiatives you’ve led that involve parent engagement, school-community partnerships, or public relations efforts.

Have you worked with parent-teacher associations to improve school programs? Organized community service projects? Created partnerships with local businesses to support student learning? 

These experiences show that you understand the importance of collaboration in building a thriving school environment. Strong communication skills are essential for addressing concerns, resolving conflicts, and fostering a sense of unity within the school community.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much do high school principals get paid in the US?

In the US, on average, a high school principal earns around $47,434 per year. That means high schools pay their principals $7.25 per hour on average. Unfortunately, at this rate, average high school principal salaries are 32 percent below the national average.

How much experience do you need to become or apply as a high school principal?

The time and experience you need to become a high school principal varies. Usually, a master’s degree and a few years of teaching experience are a must for aspiring principals. In most cases, this can take eight or more years, but a minimum of five years of experience should suffice. 

Is it mandatory to get additional certifications to become a high school principal?

While not mandatory, a well-rounded principal candidate should be able to highlight their ongoing commitment to professional development. Besides, many states require principal certification in addition to an advanced degree. These include certifications in educational leadership or school administration. These credentials demonstrate that aspiring principals have met the necessary requirements to take on a principalship and are continuously improving their skills.

Transitioning from an educator to a high school principal is a significant step that requires careful preparation and a strong resume. Schools are looking for candidates who have not only the academic credentials but also the leadership skills, administrative expertise, and commitment to student success. 

A resume that effectively showcases your experience, educational background, and ability to foster a thriving school community will set you apart from other candidates. Highlighting all these details will help position you as a top candidate for the role of high school principal.