What Is National Principals Month?
Every October, National Principals Month shines a spotlight on the transformative power of our school principals. These leaders, with their resolute vision and unwavering dedication, aren’t merely running schools—they’re molding futures, shaping communities, and paving pathways to success for every student.
As highlighted in a report by The Wallace Foundation, the role of a principal stretches far beyond administrative duties. Their leadership has a deep-seated impact on the very heart of education, making principals the second most influential force inside a school, just after effective teaching. Their influence radiates outwards, touching all facets of a school and significantly influencing student outcomes.
But National Principals Month is more than a celebration—it’s a rally cry. It calls us to address the very real challenges principals face and emphasizes the urgent need to support their resilience and fortify their ranks. This month, we don’t just honor our principals, we advocate for them, urging for policy changes and strategic support that equip them to thrive in their pivotal roles.
The celebration and advocacy work are a shared endeavor between the American Federation of School Administrators (AFSA), the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP), and the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP). Together, we’re committed to supporting, uplifting, and future-proofing the linchpins of our educational system—our school principals.
About the Organizations
The American Federation of School Administrators (AFSA)
AFSA promotes the professional, occupational, and economic interests of public school principals, administrators, and supervisors nationwide. As the only national education union for school administrators, it provides labor relations and professional services along with other support for its members.
The National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP)
NAESP advocates for the support that elementary and middle school principals need to be successful leaders—to achieve the highest results for children, families, and communities. NAESP provides high-quality professional learning and resources aligned to leadership standards; supports school leaders in providing students a well-rounded and complete education, which includes access to high-quality early learning, arts integration, and afterschool and summer learning; and strengthens the principal pipeline through mentor training and support for early career principals, assistant principals, and aspiring principals.
The National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP)
NASSP is the leading professional organization for middle level and high school principals, assistant principals, and other school leaders across the United States and beyond. At NASSP, we are cultivating a generation of courageous school and student leaders to reimagine and rebuild an education system that meets every student’s needs by providing equitable access and opportunity.