Introduction
School principals are responsible for managing all aspects of their school, from hiring and firing staff to developing curriculum and overseeing budgets. Principals serve as educational leaders, helping to create an environment where students can thrive and reach their full potential. But how much do principals make for all their hard work? In this article, we’ll explore the average salaries of school principals in the US, as well as the factors that influence their pay and the benefits of being a school principal.
The Average Salary for a School Principal in the US
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for elementary and secondary school administrators was $95,310 in May 2019. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $60,320, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $156,990. So, what determines the salaries of school principals? Let’s take a closer look.
Factors that Determine a Principal’s Salary
A variety of factors influence a principal’s salary, including the size of the school, its location, and the type of school. For example, a principal at a large high school in a major metropolitan area will likely earn more than a principal at a small rural elementary school. Additionally, public school principals typically earn less than those at private schools. Other factors that can affect a principal’s salary include experience, certification, and additional education.
Average National Salary
According to a study by the National Center for Education Statistics, the average principal salary nationwide was $103,240 in 2016–17. However, there are significant regional variations in pay. For example, the average salary for school principals in the Northeast was $113,110, compared to $93,610 in the West. The South had the lowest average salary for principals, at $91,790.
Regional Differences in Principal Pay
The amount principals make in different states also varies significantly. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the five states with the highest salaries for school principals in 2019 were New York ($153,340), Alaska ($144,920), Connecticut ($141,560), California ($139,620), and Massachusetts ($138,830). On the other hand, the five states with the lowest salaries for school principals were Mississippi ($76,220), South Dakota ($77,730), Nebraska ($79,040), Oklahoma ($80,020), and Arkansas ($82,440).
How Much Do Principals Make in Private Schools?
Principals in private schools typically earn more than their counterparts in public schools. According to a 2018 survey by the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), the median base salary for private school heads was $145,850. This figure is significantly higher than the median pay for public school principals, which was $103,240 according to the National Center for Education Statistics.
Benefits of Being a School Principal
In addition to the financial rewards, there are many other benefits to being a school principal. Principals have the opportunity to shape the future of their schools and the lives of their students. They also get to work with a diverse range of people, from teachers and staff to parents and community members. Additionally, principals often receive generous benefits packages, including health insurance, retirement plans, and vacation time.
Conclusion
School principals play an important role in shaping the future of their students and the communities they serve. While the average salary for principals in the US is $103,240, there are significant regional variations in pay. Principals in private schools typically earn more than their counterparts in public schools, and there are many additional benefits to being a school principal. All in all, being a school principal is a rewarding and fulfilling career choice.
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