Principals and Vice Principals

School Principalship Careers

The principal is responsible for the overall administration and operation of the school in a manner consistent with local policies and provincial guidelines. Further, the principal oversees the implementation of the district priorities, educational programs and the development of the School Plan and is responsible for the educational welfare of students.

Vice-principals work with the principal in providing administrative and educational leadership within K-12 public schools. This includes the organization of school programs, long-term planning for the school and supporting, coordinating and supervising the educational welfare of students.

They are often responsible for school resources and supplies although specific responsibilities vary greatly depending on the school.  For some specialist positions, additional training including master’s degrees will be required.

Qualifications and Certification Requirements

A Master’s or equivalent degree in a relevant field and senior educational leadership in a school system may be required. Eligible membership in the BC Ministry of Education’s Teacher Regulation Branch is necessary to be appointed to this position.

Principals/vice principals may be members of associations such as BC Principals’ & Vice-Principals’ Association, or other local Principal and Vice-principal associations.

Salary and Benefits

Compensation among school administrators, including principals and vice principals, varies among districts. Because each position has its own unique requirements and responsibilities, total salary and compensation can vary. In some districts, principals may hold dual roles in school administration and classroom teaching. Because of these differences, and that total compensation is negotiated between a district and the job candidate, total salary and compensation differs from one district to another.

Like all other public education sector employees, principals and vice principals receive a comprehensive extended health benefits, professional development allowance, and generous pension.

Training and Educational Programs

The following is a list of Masters of Education programs offered in British Columbia post-secondary institutions.

Employment Opportunities

Find principal and vice principal jobs on Makeafuture.ca under the ‘teachers and administrators’ position category.

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