Popular Principal Resume Examples
Entry-level principal resume
An entry-level resume for a principal should focus on educational background, leadership skills, relevant certifications, and any volunteer experience to demonstrate capability despite limited professional history.
Showcases education: Putting education near the top allows this resume to show the candidate’s expertise, even early in their career.
Emphasizes soft skills: This approach highlights the job seeker's soft skills in leadership and engagement, which effectively offset limited experience.
Mid-career principal resume
A mid-career principal resume should emphasize leadership experience, innovative educational strategies, and continuous professional development to effectively showcase their impact in the education sector.
Encourages quick scanning: A well-structured and visually appealing layout allows hiring managers to quickly identify key qualifications, showcasing achievements in leadership and educational improvement effectively.
Begins with a powerful summary: This resume's professional summary highlights essential qualifications, showcasing achievements such as increased student enrollment and graduation rates. This focus enables recruiters and ATS to swiftly recognize valuable experience.
Experienced principal resume
A resume for an experienced principal should highlight leadership achievements and demonstrate a clear path of professional growth in educational administration.
Optimized for ATS: The resume uses a polished template that seamlessly integrates a sophisticated header with an ATS-friendly resume layout, ensuring it is both visually appealing and accessible for automated screening and hiring managers.
Quantifies achievements: Quantifiable achievements provide a clear snapshot of a job seeker's impact, allowing recruiters to quickly grasp the significance of their contributions. For instance, stating that test scores rose by 15% under your leadership showcases measurable success and effective strategies.
Principal Resume Template
Looking to create a standout resume? Use this principal resume template as your starting point—just personalize it with your details for an impressive finish.
Jessica Claire
Los Angeles, CA 90001
(555)555-5555
Jessica.Claire@example.com
Professional Summary
Experienced principal improving student outcomes with strategic leadership and innovative educational programs. Adept in team building and curriculum development, enhancing school efficiency and student engagement.
Work History
Principal
Excellence Academy - Los Angeles, CA
March 2023 - September 2025
- Improved student scores by 25% in first year
- Led 50-person faculty team for curriculum revamp
- Increased enrollment by 15% within one year
School Administrator
Harmony High School - Long Beach, CA
March 2021 - February 2023
- Implemented new tech, boosting efficiency by 30%
- Managed budget, reducing costs by $100K annually
- Coordinated events, increasing parent involvement by 40%
Vice Principal
Rockridge Academy - Santa Monica, CA
February 2020 - February 2021
- Organized faculty meetings, enhancing teamwork by 20%
- Oversaw discipline, reducing incidents by 50%
- Introduced after-school programs, boosting engagement 35%
Skills
- Educational Leadership
- Curriculum Development
- Strategic Planning
- Budget Management
- Conflict Resolution
- Team Building
- Public Relations
- Student Performance Analysis
Education
Master of Education Educational Leadership
Springfield State University Springfield, Illinois
May 2019
Bachelor of Arts Education
Springfield College Springfield, Illinois
May 2018
Certifications
- Certified Principal Program - National Association of Secondary School Principals
- Educational Leadership Certification - State Board of Education
Languages
- Spanish - Beginner (A1)
- French - Intermediate (B1)
- Mandarin - Beginner (A1)
Must-Have Skills on a Principal Resume
A solid skills section is important for building an impressive resume.
The following data highlights the most sought-after hard and soft skills relevant to various roles, derived from Resume Now’s extensive resume database.
When you’re ready to improve your resume with skills, check out our AI Resume Skills Generator. It provides tailored suggestions based on your job title, helping you create a diverse and effective skill set.
Writing Your Principal Resume
Having explored these effective resume examples, you're now equipped to dive into the process of how to write a resume. We will guide you through each section step by step, ensuring you craft a compelling document that stands out.
List your most relevant skills
An effective skills section on your principal resume should showcase both your leadership abilities and the technical expertise that aligns with the role. Make sure to incorporate keywords from the job listing, as this not only appeals to human recruiters but also improves your chances of passing through applicant tracking systems (ATS).
By carefully selecting and presenting these keywords, you demonstrate a clear alignment with the school's needs. This strategic approach signals that you are equipped to take on the responsibilities of a principal while making it easier for ATS software to recognize your suitability for the position. Remember, clarity and relevance are key in making a lasting impression.
Example of skills on a principal resume
- Proficient in managing school budgets and resources effectively
- Adept at fostering strong relationships with staff, students, and parents
- Committed to creating an inclusive and positive learning environment
- Strong communicator with the ability to inspire and lead diverse teams
A strong skills section combines hard and soft skills to show an applicant's technical abilities alongside their ability to effectively communicate and collaborate. This balance highlights readiness for both job duties and team dynamics.
Highlight your work history
The work experience section of your resume should highlight not only your job duties but also your achievements and successes in each role. By emphasizing specific accomplishments, you can show how you've effectively applied your skills and made a positive impact in previous positions.
When listing each job entry, make sure to include key details such as your title, the employer's name, and the dates you worked there. Including this information establishes professional credibility while providing context about your career timeline. It’s also an opportunity to highlight any significant contributions or leadership roles that distinguish you from other applicants.
Example of a principal work experience entry
- Principal
Lincoln High School - Seattle, WA
August 2018 - Present - Lead a team of 50+ educators to improve curriculum delivery and improve student engagement across various subjects
- Implement data-driven strategies to boost student performance, resulting in a 20% increase in standardized test scores over three years
- Foster a positive school culture through community outreach and parental involvement initiatives, achieving a 90% satisfaction rate among families
- Conduct professional development workshops for faculty on innovative teaching methods and classroom management, improving staff retention by 15%
- Oversee budget allocation and resource management for school programs, ensuring effective use of funding while improving educational opportunities for students
Quantifying achievements as a principal is vital for showcasing impact and effectiveness. For example, stating that you led initiatives resulting in a 40% increase in student engagement can vividly illustrate your leadership's positive outcomes to stakeholders.
Include your education
The education section of your principal resume should be organized in reverse-chronological order, starting with your most recent degree. Include your diplomas and degrees while excluding high school diplomas if you have higher education qualifications. This structure allows employers to see your most relevant educational achievements up front.
If you are currently enrolled in a program or have not completed a degree, indicate your highest level of education achieved along with an expected graduation date. Including bullet points that list relevant coursework or academic achievements can be beneficial for those who are students or recent graduates as it highlights their educational focus and dedication.
Common certifications for a principal resume
- Certified Financial Planner (CFP) – Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc.
- Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) – CFA Institute
- Financial Risk Manager (FRM) – Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP)
- Certified Investment Management Analyst (CIMA) – Investment Management Consultants Association (IMCA)
Showcase publications and research
Including a publications section on your resume reflects your commitment to advancing knowledge and contributes to establishing you as a thought leader in your field. Publications serve as tangible proof of your ability to influence educational practices and policies, improving both your credibility and the reputation of the institutions you represent.
You should create a dedicated publications section if you have multiple works that highlight your contributions. This approach ensures clear visibility of your intellectual output. Alternatively, if limited to one or two publications, consider integrating them into sections like education or experience. Proper citation formats suitable for educational contexts can help maintain clarity and professionalism when listing these works.
Example of a publications section
- Smith, A. & Jones, B. (2024). "Leading Educational Reform: Strategies for Principals". Journal of Educational Leadership, 15(2), 112-130.
- Brown, C. & Taylor, D. (2023). "Impact of School Climate on Student Achievement". Educational Research Review, 9(3), 45-60.
- Project Team Leader, Local Education Agency (2022–2023). "Research Contribution to Community Engagement Initiatives". Facilitated workshops to improve parental involvement in schools.
- Johnson, E., Smith, A., et al. (2022). "Collaborative Approaches in Curriculum Development". Curriculum Studies Quarterly, 20(1), 100-115.
Sum up your resume with an introduction
Creating a compelling profile section in your resume is essential for making a strong first impression. This section serves as your introduction to potential employers, summarizing who you are and what unique value you bring to the table. A well-crafted profile can quickly capture attention, encouraging hiring managers to delve deeper into your qualifications.
If you have several years of experience in your field, a professional summary is often the best approach. This format allows you to showcase significant accomplishments and skills right at the top of your resume. By summarizing your career highlights effectively, you demonstrate your qualifications succinctly, helping recruiters understand why you're a strong applicant without having to sift through lengthy descriptions.
If you’re new to the role of principal, write a resume objective that summarizes your goals and growing experience.
Professional summary example
Dynamic principal with over 10 years of experience in leading educational initiatives and driving academic excellence. Demonstrated success in fostering a collaborative school culture, improving student engagement, and implementing innovative teaching strategies. Highly adept at curriculum development, staff training, and community outreach.
Resume objective example
Enthusiastic principal job seeker eager to use strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills in a collaborative educational environment. Committed to fostering student engagement and promoting academic excellence while contributing positively to the school's vision and goals.
For a principal position, your resume profile serves as an important entry point to showcase your qualifications. By carefully analyzing the job description, you can weave in relevant keywords to improve your visibility in applicant tracking systems. This strategic approach improves your chances of getting noticed by hiring managers looking for specific skills and experiences.
Add unique sections to set you apart
Including optional resume sections can help you highlight your unique qualifications for principal positions. These sections allow you to present additional facets of your professional journey that may set you apart from other applicants.
By showcasing relevant hobbies, volunteer work, or leadership roles outside the classroom, you demonstrate not only your skills but also your values and commitment to community engagement. This insight into your personal interests can resonate with employers, showing them how you embody the qualities they seek in a principal. Ultimately, these sections provide a fuller picture of who you are as an educational leader.
Three sections perfect for a principal resume
- Leadership experience: Your leadership roles highlight your ability to guide and inspire teams. Detail positions held, key responsibilities, and any successful initiatives you've led that demonstrate your impact on organizational goals.
- Curriculum development: Creating educational programs showcases your expertise in developing effective learning experiences. Include specific curricula you've designed, the educational needs they addressed, and feedback or outcomes that illustrate their success.
- Community engagement: Involvement in outreach efforts reflects your commitment to education beyond the classroom. List programs you've participated in, your role, and the positive effects on both students and the community.
5 Resume Formatting Tips
- Choose a format that matches your career stage.
Choosing the appropriate resume format is key to presenting your experience effectively. Experienced professionals might benefit from using a chronological format to showcase their career progression. Alternatively, individuals new to the workforce can focus on skills by opting for a functional resume. For those seeking a balanced approach, a combination format works well to highlight both skills and work history.
- Pick a smart resume template.
Using a professional resume template improves readability and streamlines formatting. A well-structured design helps your achievements stand out, making it easier for hiring managers to find key information quickly. If you prefer to create your own layout, prioritize clarity and use fonts compatible with applicant tracking systems.
- Select an appropriate font.
Opt for an easy-to-read resume font that improves your resume's clarity. Recommended choices include Helvetica, Georgia, or Verdana, as they are visually appealing and suitable for both ATS systems and human reviewers.
- Use consistent formatting.
Ensure your resume features uniform margins and is neatly left-aligned to improve readability and provide a polished, professional look.
- Keep your resume to one or two pages.
When crafting your resume, remember that resumes should be one page long. This guideline helps keep your content concise and focused on the key information that highlights your qualifications and experiences.
Tools for Your Job Search
Are you ready to advance your career as a principal? Before you submit your application for that coveted position, consider using our ATS Resume Checker. This valuable tool helps you understand how your resume performs with the automated systems many educational institutions use for initial screening.
Looking for an effective way to improve your application? Our AI Resume Builder provides tailored content recommendations specific to your leadership experience, along with professionally designed templates that help showcase your accomplishments and qualifications effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
Last Updated: October 3, 2025
Absolutely. A cover letter is important because it adds depth to your resume and creates a platform for direct communication with employers. It allows you to express your passion for the role and highlight how your unique experiences make you an ideal job seeker. So, take the time to write a cover letter that complements your application.
For a quick and effective solution, try our AI Cover Letter Generator. It helps you create tailored cover letters in just minutes, offering various cover letter template options that align perfectly with your resume, ensuring you present yourself professionally and cohesively.
A resume is a brief document, typically one to two pages long, focusing on your work experience and skills. In contrast, a CV (curriculum vitae) can extend several pages and includes detailed information about your academic achievements, research contributions, publications, and professional experiences.
You should use a CV when applying for roles in academia, science, law, or specialized fields where comprehensive background is essential. If you find yourself needing to create a CV, our online CV Maker offers an efficient solution. With various CV templates tailored to different industries and career levels, you can easily craft a standout CV that meets your specific needs.
When addressing gaps on your resume, be honest about the reasons behind them. Whether you were pursuing further education or managing personal matters, it's important to acknowledge this time. Highlight any relevant skills or experiences gained during that period. Then shift the focus back to your qualifications and achievements, showing potential employers how you are prepared for the role they are offering.
To craft a standout principal resume, select an engaging professional template and integrate essential keywords from the job description. This strategy showcases your qualifications and aligns your experience with the school's needs.
In your resume summary, briefly state your aspirations as a principal, such as "Dedicated educator aiming to foster school improvement." However, use your cover letter to elaborate on your vision for the role and how specific positions align with your career growth. Focus on opportunities that allow you to advance and make compelling changes in education.
To excel as a principal, actively pursue professional development opportunities. Consider obtaining relevant certifications, joining educational associations, and participating in workshops. Stay informed by reading education-related articles and engaging with peers to share insights on best practices and innovations in the field.
Was this information helpful? Let us know!
Leisha is a career industry editor dedicated to helping job seekers excel in their careers.
More resources
How to Include Networking Skills on a Resume (40+ Examples, Definition & Tips to Improve)
What are networking skills? We ll answer this and all your p...
How to Write a Resume for a Career Change
Need a resume to showcase your unique career path? Our guide c...
Healthcare Resume: Examples, Template & Skills
As you prepare your healthcare resume we ll help you highli...
Fashion Designer Resume: Examples, Templates and Tips for 2025
Get inspired with our fashion designer resume examples as well...