Elementary, middle, and high school principals manage all school operations, including daily school activities. They coordinate curricula, oversee teachers and other school staff, and provide a safe and productive learning environment for students.

Principals work in public and private elementary, middle, and high schools. Most principals work year round.

Principals typically need a master's degree in education administration or leadership. Most principal positions require candidates to have work experience as a teacher.

The median annual wage for elementary, middle, and high school principals was $90,410 in May 2015.

Employment of elementary, middle, and high school principals is projected to grow 6 percent from 2014 to 2024, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Employment growth will be driven by increases in school enrollments.

Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for elementary, middle, and high school principals.

Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of elementary, middle, and high school principals with similar occupations.

Learn more about elementary, middle, and high school principals by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.