Why I Became a Principal
I have been asked why I became an elementary school principal, by educators in the classroom and by prospective administrators curious about my position. Here are a few reasons off the top of my head:
1. I Didn't Have to Leave the Classroom
When I began teaching, I fully intended to end my educational career as a teacher. That is, until my principal read aloud in my classroom. Watching him share his favorite literature with my students, interacting with them not as the authority figure but rather as a knowledgeable and caring adult, opened my eyes to the concept that a principal isn't necessarily a suit sitting behind a desk. It was an "Ah ha" moment for me, probably similar to when students see their teacher at Wal-Mart and realize he or she doesn't live at school. I am proud to say that I continue this practice of reading aloud to students on a regular basis.
2. I Had Some Great Principals
I am very fortunate to have had three terrific administrators to work for, as an intern, as a teacher, and as an assistant principal. All three had a unique way of leading, which helped me determine what kind of principal I wanted to be. What did they all had in common?
They put students first.
They made decisions based on what was best for student learning.
They didn't lose their cool when problems came up.
They always had time to listen.
They were honest and forthright. I knew where I stood with them at all times.
I definitely was not the perfect staff member; I made several mistakes along the way toward my current position. However, they allowed me to deal with those situations and help reflect upon how I could have done things differently, rather than step in and try to prevent struggles. I was allowed to learn from my mistakes.
3. I Was a Good Teacher
One of my former administrators once asked me, "What type of teacher is most suited for the principalship?" I didn't know, I said. "The best teacher in the building," he replied. At first, I questioned this logic. Why would a great teacher step out of the classroom and give up the opportunity to make an impact on kids? As I found out, I continue to make a difference. I do this by falling back on what I know great teaching looks like. I use this knowledge to guide my staff on the path of constant growth.
I believe I was successful as a teacher, and I became better every year. This gives me the experience, validity and respect to observe in any classroom and determine the effectiveness of the instruction. If I wasn't a good teacher, how could I ever possibly be an instructional leader in my school? If you are a teacher, I encourage you to find out what your principal did before his or her current position. You may be surprised. Most if not all administrators do not let their teaching licenses expire. Many continue to teach, even if it isn't always in the classroom.
4. It Is a Challenge
I am not saying that teaching is any less challenging. It is just a different type of challenge. Instead of keeping 25 students focused on the activity for the day, I am expected to help that one student who doesn't want to participate to turn it around and get back into class.
One of the first ways I experienced this new kind of challenge was when I participated in building and district committees. These activities gave me the opportunity to see what it was like to lead an initiative and work with teachers on buy-in for an upcoming change. I found that I enjoyed collaborating with adults in this capacity, even if it was sometimes a struggle. The success we achieved together validated the effort and made the process that much more rewarding.
5. It Is a Change
One colleague of mine described entering the principalship as taking on an entirely new profession. This is very true in many ways. For example, no longer are you beholden to the almighty school schedule. For the most part, I am able to allocate time that I feel best benefits my students and aligns with my building's goals.
I started to feel the urge to venture out into new territory in the latter part of my teaching career. I was very happy in the classroom, don't get me wrong. At the same time I saw the opportunity to become a building administrator as a way to make a positive impact on student learning in a broader sense. I am able to be a part of more learning endeavors and participate in the entire school experience with everyone in the building.
For current principals, what would you add to this list? For prospective principals, how are you learning more about this great profession? Please share in the comments.