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High School Principal Jobs (NOW HIRING)

RE-1 Valley Schools

High School Principal

Sterling, CO

$93K - $136K/yr

The High School Principal position for the 20262027 school year has been filled through an interim appointment. The district is maintaining this posting to build a qualified applicant pool for the ...

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$34K

$109.6K

$158K

How much do high school principal jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for high school principal in the United States is $109,559.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,500.00 and $125,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a high school principal do?

A high school principal is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the school's operations, including academic programs, staff management, student discipline, and community relations. They work to create a safe and productive learning environment, implement school policies, and ensure compliance with educational standards. Principals also collaborate with teachers, students, and parents to support student achievement and foster school improvement. Their role requires strong leadership, decision-making, and communication skills.

What does a high school principal do?

A high school principal manages the daily operations and oversees all of the faculty and staff at a school. As a high school principal, you review all the school’s curriculum, discuss policies of the athletic and extracurricular departments, and read, analyze, and review test scores. It is your job to carry out district, state, or federal mandates regarding educational practices. The principal interviews and hires new faculty and interacts with parents and community members.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a high school principal, and why are they important?

To thrive as a High School Principal, you typically need a background in education, leadership experience, and a relevant master's degree or administrative certification. Familiarity with student information systems, educational technology platforms, and state regulatory requirements is important. Strong communication, conflict resolution, and organizational skills help principals manage staff, engage with students and families, and foster a positive school culture. These skills are vital for leading a school effectively, ensuring academic success, and creating a safe and supportive environment for all stakeholders.

What are some of the common challenges faced by high school principals in managing staff and student needs?

High school principals often navigate the complex challenge of balancing administrative responsibilities with the diverse needs of students and staff. They are responsible for creating a positive school culture, managing conflicts, implementing educational policies, and ensuring staff professional development. Additionally, principals must address student behavior, parent concerns, and maintain compliance with district and state regulations. Building strong relationships and fostering open communication are key strategies principals use to effectively manage these ongoing challenges.

What is the difference between High School Principal vs Assistant Principal?

AspectHigh School PrincipalAssistant Principal
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, administrative certification, master's preferredBachelor's degree, administrative certification, master's preferred
Work EnvironmentOverall school leadership, policy implementationSupports principal, manages daily operations
Employer & Industry UsagePublic and private high schoolsPublic and private high schools

The main difference between a high school principal and an assistant principal lies in their scope of responsibilities. The principal oversees the entire school, sets policies, and manages staff and student issues, while the assistant principal supports the principal by handling daily operations and disciplinary matters. Both roles require similar credentials and are integral to school leadership, but the principal holds the top administrative position.

Do high school principals get paid more than teachers?

High school principals typically earn higher salaries than teachers due to increased responsibilities, leadership duties, and required qualifications such as administrative certifications. While teacher salaries vary based on experience and education level, principals often have higher pay scales and additional benefits. Salary differences can also depend on school district budgets and regional pay standards.

Do you need a PhD to be a high school principal?

A PhD is not required to become a high school principal; most principals hold a master's degree in education or a related field and have several years of teaching and administrative experience. Certification or licensure in educational leadership is typically necessary, and requirements can vary by state or district.

What qualifications do you need to be a high school principal?

To become a high school principal, candidates typically need a master's degree in education administration, leadership, or a related field, along with several years of teaching experience. A valid state administrator certification or license is usually required, and strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills are essential for the role.
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High School Principal jobs near you
Infographic showing various High School Principal job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,559 per year, or $52.7 per hour.

HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL

Lemont, IL • On-site

Lemont High School District 210
See more jobs at Lemont High School District 210external

$165K - $185K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
PRINCIPAL-CONFIDENTIAL
Date Posted:
9/4/2026
Location:
Lemont High School
Date Available:
July 1, 2027
HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL
JOB SUMMARY: Leads and administers the total high school program under the general direction of the Superintendent.
QUALIFICATIONS: Master's degree or advanced degree in a relevant field. Doctorate preferred. Valid Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) and General Administrative or Principal Endorsement. Experience in a full-time building or district administrative position required, high school level preferred.
SALARY/BENEFITS: $165,000-$185,000 commensurate with experience. Benefits package includes Board-paid TRS and THIS, family Health, Dental, and Vision, cell phone, and tuition reimbursement. Term life insurance in the amount of annual salary, plus a disability and income protection policy.
Apply online by October 26, 2026
www.lhs210.net
(job description attached)
Lemont High School is an equal opportunity employer
Attachment(s):
  • Principal Job Description.docx

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