If my long term goal is to be a elemantary principal would it be smarter to become a teacher first or just go to college to become a principal?

So happy to hear that you would like a career in Education. I would have to say that you may need to be a teacher for a few years, while still continue to get your education like attaining a PH.D to give you a better opportunity to become a principal.

Hi, Tori!

One thing to keep in mind is that while requirements vary from country to country and state to state, many school districts require that their principals have taught for a minimum number of years. You should look into the requirements based on the location(s) that you're interested in working. Another point of view to consider is that in order to be an effective principal, you should know what it's like to be a teacher.

Good luck!

You cannot go to college to be a principal. Meaning you can't graduate with a bachelor's degree and then apply to be a principal somewhere. You must first get a teaching degree and then go back for a master degree, in anything plus a mid management certificate. Once that is obtained, you need to continue working for a district and secure enough confidence that the administrators has faith in you to appoint you in a management position when a vacancy opens.

Hi Tori -

Being a teacher first will definitely NOT be a waste of time! To add to what my colleagues above have already said, being a teacher first will give you an up-close-and-personal perspective on what teachers have to actually deal with in the classroom. This will serve you well as an administrator because you will have a personal understanding of the kind of resources and support a teacher needs to do a good job with students.

I must echo Mireya's happiness at hearing that you would like to pursue a career in education!

All the best to you,

Nancy W. Campbell, M.Ed.