Q: I love being in the classroom with my students, and I’ve been encouraged by my principal to consider a pathway into educational leadership. I don’t know where to start! What things should I be considering for a leadership pathway? How do I select an institution for a degree? Which degree should I get? How do I set myself up for success down the road? How do I not lose touch with who I am as an educator?
Signed, An aspiring educational leader
A: First, let me commend you for your passion for teaching and desire to explore educational leadership. It’s a significant decision, and your love for the classroom will be a powerful asset as you transition into this new role. Here’s a roadmap to help guide you through this exciting journey. I know that this was one of the hardest decisions I ever had to make because, like you, I was quite happy in the classroom.
Reflect on your motivation
Before diving into programs or degrees, take a moment to reflect on what draws you to educational leadership. Is it the desire to influence policy, mentor other educators, or create a positive school culture? Understanding your motivations will help you stay focused and aligned with your values as you progress. It will also help you choose the right pathway.
Research leadership pathways
There are various pathways into educational leadership, each with its unique focus. Some common roles include:
- Department head or curriculum coordinator: This role often involves overseeing a specific subject area and working closely with teachers to improve curriculum and instruction. I chose this role, and it was the perfect fit for me. I knew that leading a building wasn’t my passion. But I am wild about instruction, curriculum, and assessment, so becoming a curriculum director was my choice. Being a central office administrator allows you to see the full articulation of learning, which was my strength.
- Assistant principal: This position typically involves supporting the principal in managing school operations, student discipline, and staff development.
- Principal: In this role, you will lead the entire school and shape its vision, culture, and policies.
Consider which of these roles resonates with you. Each has different responsibilities and requires different skill sets, so think about where you see yourself thriving. It also helps to talk to folks currently in these roles or who have been in them before to understand better what the day-to-day looks like.
Selecting an institution
When it comes to choosing an institution for your degree, consider the following factors:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited and recognized in your state or country. This will be crucial for your degree’s validity and future job prospects.
- Program focus: Look for programs that align with your career goals. Some programs emphasize educational administration, while others emphasize curriculum development or instructional leadership.
- Flexibility: Since you’re currently teaching, you might want a program that offers evening or online classes. This can help you balance work and study. In some states, you can also go on an alternative pathway, which I did — I applied my teacher leadership experience to get into a program to get my degree faster. I could be in the program and accept a job simultaneously in New York state.
- Networking opportunities: Institutions with strong connections with local school districts can provide valuable networking opportunities and internships. You can never overvalue the power of these kinds of connections in your career.
Choosing the right degree
Consider pursuing a master’s in education leadership or administration, as these are often prerequisites for leadership roles. Some educators also opt for an Ed.D. (Doctor of Education) or Ph.D. in Educational Leadership if they want research or higher-level administrative roles.
Think about what skills you want to develop. Look for programs that offer coursework in areas like:
- Leadership theory: Understanding different leadership styles and their impact on school culture and help with change management.
- School law and policy: Knowledge of legal frameworks governing education will be crucial. This was a key area I needed to focus on (along with school finance) as it was the area I had the least experience in.
- Data-driven decision making: Learning to analyze and use data effectively can help improve student outcomes.
Setting yourself up for success
Success in educational leadership requires more than a degree. Make sure to seek mentorship opportunities. The right mentor will provide invaluable insights and experiences to support you in your new role. Leadership can be a little lonely, so the right mentor can ease the transition. Keep learning by engaging in professional learning opportunities. Learning alongside teachers where possible will demonstrate your commitment to learning. Lastly, build a support network of other aspiring leaders so you can continue to uplift each other through challenging times.
Staying connected to your educator roots
As you step into leadership, it’s essential to maintain your connection to the classroom. You can do this by spending time in classrooms and being visible as a teacher support. Listen to teachers when they share challenges, celebrate their successes, and let their concerns become yours. And always make it about the students. Maintaining relationships with the students can keep you grounded in the why of this work and ensure you don’t lose sight of what is most important.
Embarking on a pathway to educational leadership is a challenging journey filled with opportunities for growth and impact. By reflecting on your motivations, choosing the right program, and staying connected to your roots as an educator, you’ll set yourself up for success. Embrace this new chapter enthusiastically, and remember that your love for teaching will always be your strongest asset.
Best of luck on your journey!
Have a question that you’d like Career Confidential to answer? Email mssackstein@gmail.com. All names and schools will remain confidential. No identifying information will be included in the published questions and answers.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Starr Sackstein
Starr Sackstein is the Massachusetts state coordinator for PDK’s Educators Rising program, COO of Mastery Portfolio, an education consultant, instructional coach, and author. She was a high school English and journalism teacher and school district curriculum leader. She is the author of more than 15 educational books, including Hacking Assessment (Times 10, 2015), Making an Impact Outside of the Classroom (Routledge, 2024), and Actionable Assessment (Routledge, 2026).
Visit their website at: https://www.mssackstein.com/
