Superintendents have a vital role to play in every school district. They act as the CEO and help to make important decisions about school curriculum, school updates and hiring faculty and staff. A love of education and learning is one of the best skills you can have as a superintendent, but you also need to be excellent with numbers, work well with others and use critical thinking skills to move the district in the right direction.

If you’re currently involved in education but are thinking about taking on the role of superintendent, you will need to get your superintendent certificate. But is now the right time to make a career switch? Here are the signs you should take the leap.

When you’re ready for a career change

Job satisfaction is extremely important in any role. If you feel as though your current position isn’t fulfilling but you still love the field of education, moving up into a superintendent role could be perfect for you. You won’t be in a classroom anymore, but you will be able to make important decisions about the education that students in your district will receive.

When you’re craving new tasks

Doing the same thing day after day can get tiring, even if you love what you do. Superintendent roles vary drastically from other roles in the district because they bear the financial responsibilities. They also spend a lot of time working with the community, local politicians, staff members and faculty to make positive changes.

A Superintendent’s day-to-day activities may be representing the district at a local meeting, bringing together faculty to discuss a change to the curriculum or meeting with local politicians, all while balancing the budget. If you want to fill a role that will get you out and interacting with other professionals, this is a good fit for you.

When you’re looking for more leadership opportunities

Teachers are, of course, leaders. They serve as role models and inspirations to their students and demand attention when needed. However, in order for a teacher to make major curriculum changes or suggest new furniture or tools for the school, they need to go to the superintendent. If you want to make it easier for your voice to be heard while representing the teachers, staff members and faculty who also have ideas on how to improve the district, the superintendent’s office is where you should be.

When you feel comfortable leaving the classroom

As a superintendent, you won’t get much time in the classroom. Some professionals truly love interacting with children on a daily basis. They love to teach something to their class and see the students’ faces light up when it finally clicks. Superintendents don’t get as much face-to-face interaction with students, and many students will never think to thank them like they would their teachers. But if you’re comfortable leaving the classroom knowing that you are making a difference in your students’ lives, it may be time to make the jump.

If now seems like the right time to earn your superintendent certificate, contact our graduate admission counselors today!

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