The Assistant Principal's Guide to Landing Your First Principal Interview in 2026
Principal positions are opening up—but only 12% of assistant principals make the jump within five years. Here’s how you can stand out in 2025:
Build Your Principal-Ready Profile
- Document real impact on instruction. Track how you boosted teacher effectiveness or closed achievement gaps.
- Show leadership with families and the community. Highlight wins in engagement and crisis handling.
- Prove you can manage budgets and resources.
Network Strategically
- Get on district radar: serve on committees, present, and contribute to planning.
- Participate in associations and seek out mentor principals.
Master the Interview
- Practice scenario responses (use STAR: Situation, Task, Action, Result).
- Be specific—turn “improved morale” into “reduced turnover from 18% to 7%.”
- Prepare a 100-day plan and a three-year vision.
Avoid Common Pitfalls
- Don’t just talk about discipline and operations—spotlight strategy, equity, and systems change.
- Invest in PD—seek coaching, certifications, and ongoing learning.
Ready to Stand Out?
Get personalized expert help for your next interview:
Principal Interview Prep Coaching
Move beyond the “AP trap” and step up as a visionary leader your district needs!