What are the pros and cons of being an assistant principal?

The pros and cons of being an assistant principal relate to making a difference in the lives of students, good compensation, and stress. Here are the top pros and cons of being an assistant principal:

Pros:

• Making a difference in the lives of students

Assistant principals have the opportunity to have a significant and positive impact on the students that attend their school. Many assistant principals choose to work directly with their student population to help shape their academic pursuits and also to pass on wisdom. Many find this type of work very rewarding and fulfilling.

• Good compensation

The median salary for an assistant principal in the United States is $94,296 per year. This means that half of the assistant principals actually earn even more than this figure. Assistant principals often also receive comprehensive employee benefits, including healthcare plans, and long vacation times. Specific salary can depend on region and other factors.

• You get to help shape the culture of a school

Along with the principal, an assistant principal gets to influence the culture of the school where they work. Assistant principals can often make or help to make many key decisions in the following areas:

• School policies and rules

• Curriculum

• School events and activities

• Hiring practices and protocols

One key function of an assistant principal's role is helping educators come up with solutions to specific issues or challenges.

• Variety in tasks

An assistant principal can have a varied and interesting workday filled with different tasks and challenges. Many handle new school-related issues every day. This helps to keep the job fresh and spontaneous. Assistant principals often interact with the following parties regularly:

• Students

• Teachers

• School staff and Administrators

• Parents

The job is dynamic and presents an opportunity for a variety of different types of tasks and work.

Cons:

One of the major drawbacks to being an assistant principal is the stress that comes with the job. This role can be high-pressure at times, especially in situations concerning things like making sure students perform well on standardized tests, school budgets, and disciplinary matters with students.

• Long hours

Many assistant principals work more than the traditional full-time work week of 40 hours. Some have to commit to working evenings, weekends, and even on school breaks when most students and school staff are off. However, if you are passionate about education, then the extra work hours might not be so bad.

• Conflicts

Assistant principals often have to deal with conflicts among their students, teachers, and other school staff. It can be challenging to navigate these issues, especially when they involve parents. Having strong communication and conflict-resolution skills is key to being an assistant principal.

• Required Education

Most assistant principals have to go through a long educational process. Many have a master's degree. If you want to become a principal eventually, then a master's degree is required, and some schools even require PhDs for their principals.