To become a school principal, individuals typically need a master’s degree in education, such as a Master of Science (M.S.) in Education with a focus on educational leadership or administration, along with a state-specific administrative license or certification. Most states also mandate several years of teaching experience (usually 3 to 5 years) to demonstrate classroom expertise and leadership potential.
Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) offers a fully online M.S. in Educational Administration program. Educators in Texas looking to move into administrative roles, particularly as a principal at any grade level, will gain the knowledge and credentials needed to achieve that goal.
Responsibilities of a Principal
As the top professional administrator in a school, the principal is responsible for the school’s overall operations and management. In addition to implementing policies and procedures, managing budgets, supervising staff and working with parents and community members, the principal ensures that the school is a safe and nurturing environment and that students meet academic standards and educational goals.
While overseeing curriculum, instruction, assessment and overall goals, the principal also establishes the culture of the school for teachers, staff and students. This culture extends to the broader community, also, as the principal is the liaison between the school and the community.
What Is the Average Salary for Principals?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual pay for a school principal, regardless of grade level, is $104,070. ZipRecruiter breaks down average yearly salaries by state, with the top 10 states being Washington, the District of Columbia, New York, Massachusetts, Alaska, Vermont, North Dakota, Oregon, Colorado and Hawaii.
In Texas, the average principal salary is $101,916, with the high end at about $170,000. Salaries vary based on geographic location, years of experience, school size, degree level and certifications. In addition, some schools tie principal salary to student outcomes, so higher-performing schools may pay bonuses to principals. Student achievement, attendance and mental health improvements may also influence budgets and raises.
The average annual wage for all occupations in Texas is $63,660. Education administrators typically earn above-average salaries. Principals in Texas earn higher salaries than K-12 teachers, whose average annual salary is $60,370. Texas cities with the highest salaries for principals are Odessa, Austin, West Odessa, Seagoville, Midland, DeSoto, Wichita Falls, Krum, Harlingen and Garland.
Benefits Packages for Principals
Benefits for principals commonly include health insurance, paid time off, life and disability insurance and other perks. These may be comparable or slightly better than the benefits offered to teachers. Retirement plans are generous for principals and typically include defined benefit pensions, lifetime annuities based on years of service, final average salary and a percentage multiplier.
In Texas, teachers and principals earn retirement benefits instead of Social Security through the same pension plan. In some instances, teachers and principals may have paid into both social security and a pension plan or may have paid into social security through other employment, so there are cases where a retired principal may receive both retirement benefits.
It’s also customary for principals to participate in professional development programs to stay up to date on certifications and further develop their leadership skills. Schools will often pay stipends and reimburse expenses for conferences, workshops, certifications and graduate courses. Tuition assistance is available, tax-free, for advanced degrees in many Texas school districts. Some districts also pay membership fees to professional organizations as well as offer paid time off to leaders who participate in certain programs and events. Annual salary figures do not include benefits, retirement contributions or professional development. These perks are in addition to salary.
Develop Your Leadership Abilities and Prepare for Principal Certification Exams
The online Master of Science in Educational Administration program from Texas A&M International University is designed to enhance your ability to pass the required Texas Education Agency principal exams. With its emphasis on organizational and instructional leadership, the curriculum prepares you to effectively support student success.
Coursework includes school administration, principalship, public school law, curriculum organization and evaluation. This program also includes a two-part practicum, and the flexible online format is ideal for working professionals.
Learn more about TAMIU‘s online M.S. in Educational Administration program.
