Resume Example
School Principal Resume Example
Emphasize instructional leadership, student outcomes, and community engagement. This sample focuses on school improvement.
Executive Sidebar
Professional two-column layout with elegant olive sidebar. Perfect for senior roles.
Keywords
Sample bullets
- Raised math proficiency from 46% to 59% in two years through targeted intervention plans.
- Reduced suspensions by 25% using restorative practices and behavior supports.
- Managed a $3.2M school budget while expanding after-school programs.
Soft skills
- Leadership
- Conflict resolution
- Communication
Certifications
- Administrative license
- Master's degree
- Superintendent endorsement
Why this works
- Shows student achievement gains.
- Highlights staff leadership and culture building.
- Demonstrates budget and operational control.
Step-by-Step Guide
How to Write a School Principal Resume
Highlight Administrative Leadership
Feature experience leading school operations, instructional programs, and staff development. Include school size, demographics, and improvement trajectories.
Showcase Academic Achievement Results
Demonstrate improvements in standardized test scores, graduation rates, and college readiness metrics. Include achievement gap reduction and subgroup performance.
Quantify School Improvement
Use metrics like school rating improvements, enrollment growth, and climate survey results. Show data-driven decision making and continuous improvement.
Include Staff Development and Culture
Highlight teacher retention, professional development programs, and evaluation systems. Include culture building and community engagement.
Demonstrate Strategic Vision
Include experience with school improvement planning, budget management, and stakeholder engagement. Show ability to lead change and innovation.
Summary Examples
Good vs. Bad Resume Summaries
“Elementary Principal with 8 years leading Title I schools serving 700+ students. Improved state ratings from C to A over 3 years. Increased reading proficiency by 25% and math by 18%. Teacher retention improved from 72% to 94% through mentorship and PLC implementation.”
Shows Title I experience, rating improvement, achievement gains, and retention metrics.
“High School Principal transforming urban school of 1,800 students. Raised graduation rate from 68% to 89% and college enrollment from 45% to 72%. Implemented career pathways program with 5 industry partnerships. Named Regional Principal of the Year 2024.”
Large school scale, graduation improvement, career programs, and recognition.
“School principal with experience in instructional leadership and school management. Strong relationships with staff and community.”
Too generic, no metrics, doesn't show specific accomplishments.
“Assistant principal seeking principal position. Experienced in discipline and teacher observations.”
Shows limited scope, doesn't demonstrate leadership of school improvement.
Action Verbs
Power Words for School Principal Resumes
Common Mistakes
What to Avoid
- ✗Not specifying school size, level, and demographics
- ✗Missing academic achievement and growth data
- ✗Omitting teacher retention and development metrics
- ✗Being vague about improvement strategies used
- ✗Not showing community and stakeholder engagement
- ✗Missing budget management and resource allocation
Salary ranges
| Level | US | EU | Canada |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | USD 80,000-95,000 | EUR 55,100-65,500 | CAD 92,800-110,100 |
| Mid | USD 100,000-120,000 | EUR 69,000-82,800 | CAD 115,900-139,200 |
| Senior | USD 120,000-150,000 | EUR 82,800-103,400 | CAD 139,200-174,000 |
Market themes
- Large districts and urban schools pay premiums
US hot markets
- District of Columbia
- California
- Massachusetts
- New Jersey
- Alaska
EU hot markets
- London
- Dublin
- Amsterdam
Canada hot markets
- Toronto
- Vancouver
FAQ
Common questions about this role
What should principals emphasize?
Student outcomes, instructional leadership, and school culture improvements.
Which metrics stand out?
Proficiency gains, attendance, suspension rates, and budget outcomes.
Related Roles
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