School administration is a broad field that encompasses almost any topic related to the operating of an academic institution, from managing a preschool to developing university doctorate programs. Administrators can find many rewarding ways to develop their professional skills in a variety of different work environments as they gain experience. It’s possible for experienced teachers or other professionals to transition into an administrative career, but these positions are mostly occupied by professionals with a degree and experience in school administration.
The Evolving Role of Administrators
School administrators certainly do spend a lot of their time behind a desk doing physical or digital paperwork, but this is far from their only role. Whether it’s a special event, outreach program or direction of daily coursework, administrators usually play a key part in its development. Administrators face the challenge of keeping their institution modern by facilitating the adoption of new technology or techniques that could provide value to their organization. They also fill in the gaps by taking care of all the responsibilities that fall outside the scope of teachers and other faculty members.
Key Skills and Responsibilities
The exact duties of an administrator depends on their position and employer. These professionals face different kinds of challenges on a regular basis, so they need to learn how to adapt quickly, communicate effectively and think critically. Administrators often serve as a mediating force between students, teachers, parents and third parties. They seek out opportunities to enrich the overall educational experience of students as well as management strategies to increase efficiency within the organization itself.
Academic and Experience Requirements
There is no set path for becoming a administrator aside from obtaining certification from a qualified program. However, most positions prefer or require applicants to have a related master’s degree and prior teaching or administrative experience. Elementary, middle and high school positions, including principals, usually require at least a few years spent teaching in a classroom. Individuals interested in primary school administration can begin by getting a bachelor’s degree and certification in teaching to start building classroom experience before starting a master’s program.
Careers in School Administration
The path towards a career in academic administration is demanding and takes time, but the benefits can be well worth the effort. Many people working in this field find enriching the lives of students to be a personally fulfilling occupation. These careers also have financial rewards, with school principals and post-secondary education administrators earning a median salary of around $90,0000 in 2017, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. National demand for qualified administrators is also growing at an average or above average rate.
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Running any kind of academic institution means learning how to deal with new challenges and seize opportunities along the way. Anyone interested in pursuing a career in this field should think about what draws them towards the occupation, so they can start developing essential core skills for their desired role. A career in school administration takes time and experience, but can provide an effective way to make a real impact on the educational experience of hundreds or thousands of students at once.
