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Principal Jobs in Appleton, WI (NOW HIRING)

As a Principal Calibration Engineer on the Engine and Vessel Calibration team you will be responsible for delivering complete engine and vessel calibration to support production of new and current ...

Science We are seeking an innovative and strategic Principal Scientist to drive the development of new products, processes, and ingredient solutions in the dairy and plant-based sectors. This role ...

As a Principal Calibration Engineer on the Engine and Vessel Calibration team you will be responsible for delivering complete engine and vessel calibration to support production of new and current ...

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Principal information

See Appleton, WI salary details

$35.6K

$106.7K

$177.5K

How much do principal jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal in Appleton, WI is $106,688.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,900.00 and $121,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a principal?

Principals are the lead administrators of schools, responsible for overseeing all daily operations, managing staff and students, and ensuring a safe and effective learning environment. They set educational goals, implement school policies, and work to improve academic performance and school culture. Principals also serve as the main point of communication between the school, parents, and the community. Their leadership is essential in shaping the direction and success of a school.

What does a principal do?

Principals are the lead administrators of schools. They are responsible for training and managing the staff, selecting curriculum, monitoring the school budget, and dealing with parent concerns. Principals must also deal with disciplinary issues that have escalated beyond what the student’s teacher can handle. They represent the school in district administration meetings and advocate for more funding or staff, new equipment, facility repairs, or anything else the school needs.

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

To thrive as a Principal, you need a solid background in educational leadership, curriculum development, and typically a master's degree in education administration or a related field. Familiarity with student information systems, data analysis tools, and relevant certifications such as state principal licensure are commonly required. Strong interpersonal skills, decision-making, and the ability to inspire and manage staff are essential soft skills for success. These competencies are crucial for fostering a positive learning environment, ensuring regulatory compliance, and driving school improvement initiatives.

What are some common challenges principals face when balancing administrative duties with instructional leadership?

Principals often find it challenging to balance their time between administrative responsibilities—such as budgeting, compliance, and facility management—and their role as instructional leaders focused on curriculum development and teacher support. Effective principals prioritize tasks, delegate when appropriate, and implement systems to streamline administrative processes, allowing them to spend more time in classrooms and mentoring staff. Building a strong leadership team and fostering open communication are key strategies for managing these dual responsibilities successfully.

How much do most principals make?

Most principals earn a median annual salary of around $98,000, though this can vary based on location, school size, and experience. Experienced principals in larger districts or urban areas may earn over $130,000 annually. Certification and leadership skills are important factors in salary levels.

Is becoming a principal worth it?

Becoming a principal is a leadership role that involves managing school operations, staff, and student performance. It typically requires a master's degree, administrative certification, and experience in teaching or education administration. The position offers a higher salary and increased responsibility but also involves long hours and administrative challenges.

What qualifications do you need to be a principal?

To become a principal, candidates typically need a master's degree in education or a related field, along with state certification or licensure for school administration. Most principals also have several years of teaching experience and demonstrate strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Principal jobs in Appleton, WI?

The most popular types of Principal jobs in Appleton, WI are:

What are popular job titles related to Principal jobs in Appleton, WI?

For Principal jobs in Appleton, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Principal jobs in Appleton, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Principal jobs in Appleton, WI are:

What cities near Appleton, WI are hiring for Principal jobs?

Cities near Appleton, WI with the most Principal job openings:

Infographic showing various Principal job openings in Appleton, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, and 22% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $106,688 per year, or $51.3 per hour.

Associate Principal of Highlands/Principal of Odyssey Magnet School - 1.0 FTE - Highlands/Odyssey

Appleton Area School District

Appleton, WI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Appleton Area School District rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 634 rated elementary and secondary schools


Job description

Position Type:
Administrator/Associate Principal
Date Posted:
8/19/2026
Location:
Highlands Elementary School
Date Available:
08/31/2026
Closing Date:
08/31/2026
The Appleton Area School District has a position available for a 1.0 FTE Associate Principal at Highlands Elementary and Principal of Odyssey Magnet School beginning on 08/31/2026.
We are seeking a dynamic, student-centered instructional leader for our Associate Elementary School Principal position at Highlands/Odyssey Elementary School. The Associate Principal promotes the success of all staff and students at the school by facilitating the development, articulation, and implementation of a vision of teaching and learning that supports the District's mission and vision.
Certification Required: Principal (5051)
Click here for job description
For more information on this position, please contact: Kari Krueger, Principal at kruegerkari@aasd.k12.wi.us or Bill McClone Assistant Superintendent at mcclonewilliam@aasd.k12.wi.us
--- An Equal Opportunity Employer ---

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