AboutPatricia Ireland-Williams Expertise I am a retired K-12 Public School Principal (8 years as a teacher and counselor) and 23 years as an administrator. I can help parents with questions about how the system works, provide ideas on how to solve school issues or assist teachers in coping with the plethera of stressors they face.
Experience I am currently an educational consultant and have served on the State of Arizona Solutions Team.
I taught 2 years in Hawaii and now teach in a non-traditional setting at the Starbase Academy. I would like to go back for a Masters and become a principal (elementary school).
By the time I finish school I will have 4-5 years of teaching experience.
Is this enough to get hired as an Assistant or Principal?
Would it be frowned upon because I was in a non-traditional setting---I teach 5th grade students, lots of hands-on, lots of up-to-date technology and I have my certificate w/ math and science as minor/major.
What did like/dislike about being an principal?
Is there job opportunities?
I currently reside in Michigan ( I miss Hawaii at this time of year)
Thanks for your time,
Mark
Answer There are always many jobs for good Principals. Requirements vary from state to state but all require Administrative Certification from a University program. Most Principals have 5 years of teaching experience and having some experience in supervision is helpful........a Masters or Doctorate are often required.
I do not believe that working in a non traditional setting should hinder you......that may work in your favor.
I loved being Principal (23 years). It is a very stressful but challenging job and the rewards are seen through building positive relationships with kids, staff, parents and community. If you don't have excellent people skills, a sterling work ethic (12-14 hour days) and professionalism, a person will burn out quickly. Accountability issues will permeate everything you do in that every thing is measured and remeasured over and over again.
I would suggest that you decide where you want to be a Principal, get the requirements from that State Department of Education and begin working on certification. The process will take a couple of years. Be sure you stay abreast of technology, trends, initiatives and stay in the classroom until you apply. Old experience is rarely seen as meaningful in this fast paced competitive environment. Best of luck.
