4 min read

Welcome to another edition of PEN Mondays! This week, we’re kicking it off with another series set on walking you straight to the Principals office.

So, you’ve made the leap—or are seriously considering it. Moving from the classroom to administration feels like crossing an invisible line.

On one side, you’re “one of the gang,” trusted and relatable.

On the other, you’re the one making decisions that teachers love to grumble about in the breakroom.

Congratulations, and welcome to school leadership!

Our last Monday series focused on AI in education. If you want to check it out, you can catch up with those posts (and many others) on our website! Check it out here:

Part 1 - Part 2 - Part 3

Becoming an administrator is equal parts exhilarating and terrifying. Suddenly, your responsibilities multiply, your schedule fills up, and your stress level may spike. But fear not! With a clear mindset and some practical strategies, you can navigate these challenges like the fearless leader you aspire to be.

The Expanding Scope of Responsibility

In the classroom, your main focus was your students. In administration, your focus is… everyone. Students, teachers, support staff, parents, and, of course, the looming district office. It’s like juggling flaming torches, except one of the torches is also asking for an immediate budget report.

This is where delegation becomes your best friend. Learn to trust your team—whether it’s your teachers, office staff, or other administrators—to handle their share of responsibilities. You can’t micromanage your way through leadership without burning out. Focus on making big-picture decisions, knowing you’ve got people who can handle the details.

And here’s the kicker: you won’t please everyone. Some decisions will be unpopular, and you’ll need to grow comfortable with that. Leadership isn’t about being liked—it’s about doing what’s best for your school community.

Bridging the Gap

One of the biggest fears of stepping into administration is the idea that you’ll suddenly be seen as “out of touch.” Teachers often view administrators as having forgotten what it’s like in the trenches of the classroom. And, let’s be honest, some administrators do fit that description.

Don’t be that administrator. Stay visible. Walk the halls, sit in on lessons, and keep yourself grounded in the reality of what teaching looks like today. When teachers see that you’re present, listening, and genuinely interested in their work, they’ll be far less likely to roll their eyes when you talk about “schoolwide goals.”

Most importantly, explain the reasoning behind your decisions. You’re not just moving deadlines or implementing policies for fun—at least, we hope not. If teachers understand the why behind your actions, they’ll be more inclined to respect them, even if they don’t fully agree.

The Parent Factor

Ah, parents. Every administrator’s favorite subject. Some parents will be your allies, willing to work collaboratively for their children’s success. Others… well, let’s just say they’ve already rehearsed their “Why my child deserves special treatment” speech.

Here’s the trick: listen first, set boundaries second. Most parents just want to be heard, so give them that space—even if you’re internally counting to ten. But remember, your job isn’t to cater to individual demands; it’s to make decisions for the good of the school as a whole.

Firmness and empathy can go hand in hand. A parent might not like your answer, but they’ll respect you more if you handle the situation calmly and professionally. And if they don’t? That’s what your district policies are for—use them as your shield when needed.

Advocating for Teachers

Here’s a leadership truth: if you’re not standing up for your teachers, you’re not leading. Teachers don’t just need administrators who listen to them; they need administrators who will go to bat for them. Whether it’s supporting them against unfair parent complaints, pushing back on unrealistic district mandates, or simply making sure they have the resources they need, your loyalty to your staff will define you as a leader.

When teachers feel supported, they’re more likely to take risks, try new teaching strategies, and trust you when challenges arise. And that trust? It’s what transforms a good administrator into a great one.

The Big Picture

Yes, moving into administration comes with its share of challenges, but it also comes with the opportunity to make an impact on an entirely new level. You’re not just leading a classroom—you’re shaping a school. You’re making decisions that ripple out to affect students, teachers, and families for years to come.

So, whether you’re preparing to take the leap or still deciding if administration is for you, remember: leadership isn’t about perfection. It’s about service, growth, and the willingness to step up, even when it’s hard.

And when all else fails, remember: coffee fixes almost everything.

WHAT DO YOU THINK?

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