If someone wishes to leap from the classroom setting to an administrator, the change can be demanding, but possible. Here are a few things to consider when the switch from teacher to administrator sparks an interest.Get The Necessary Requirements Accomplished
Depending on where someone works, further education will be needed to become an administrator. Usually, extended graduate programs in educational leadership are required to gain the necessary skill sets for the job. It will take some time to get through the program, but it can equip an individual to work in an internship to get on the job experience. Typically, a role as an assistant principal is a starting point before becoming the dean or principal of the school. Carefully examine the requirements for any position, including curriculum and instruction coordinators.
Update A Resume For More Specific Accomplishments
The experience gained in the classroom has value when switching from teaching to being an administrator, but it shouldn’t be the only focus. A candidate’s resume should not only focus on accomplishments made inside the classroom, but it can also reflect how they made a positive impact on the entire school. A leadership role in any school has the responsibility to make it run efficiently with student achievement. Think as an administrator would and how the new duties would be helping lead an entire school.
Seek Opportunities For Leadership Roles
There is plenty of opportunities to gain relevant experience in leadership roles in the school. Part of someone’s internship allows them the practice of running the operations of the school under the guidance of a mentor administrator. Additionally, it will benefit someone to serve in community-related events focused on impacting student achievement. Getting involved in this kind of work shows that someone is willing to go the extra mile for students. This trait is desirable for anyone who will conduct the interviews for the position. All the hard work can be worth it because administrative positions are expected to grow in the coming years, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Network As Much As Possible
Switching from teaching to being an administrator is a big step, so it can be helpful to use current contacts to help. Stepping out of the comfort zone to let the current administration know what goals you have for the future can help tremendously. Almost any colleague will be happy to assist anyone looking to advance their career in education. It may be surprising to discover how much information they can share with someone who aspires to be in a leadership role shortly.
Self-Education
Education is always changing, so anyone looking to become an administrator needs to keep up to date. Knowing best practices, current trends, and issues inside the classroom will equip someone with the knowledge they need to nail their interviews. An administrator needs to be flexible and continuously absorb new knowledge to be successful.
Related Resource: Master’s in Educational Leadership
Teachers who want to switch from teaching to an administrative role should consider these suggestions. A good administrator was once a great teacher inside the classroom.
