Understanding the Assistant Principalship in School Leadership Policy and Practice

• In Event: Innovations in Leadership Evaluation: Policy, Practice, and Emerging Technologies

Abstract

This study uses data from the 2024 RAND American School Leader Panel and 2020–2021 NTPS to explore the assistant principalship. Findings show continued growth in AP prevalence across school levels and locales. Principals report APs fill multiple roles, including discipline and instructional leadership. This study highlights the essential role of the assistant principalship in school leadership and as key step toward the principalship. While many APs have access to mentoring and professional development, gaps remain. Currently, many state and local policies, such as leadership evaluation, are not uniquely focused on APs, but the same for all school leadership positions. These results provide timely insights for policymakers and leaders aiming to strengthen the AP role and improve leadership development.

Authors

• George Smith, Mathematica Policy Research, Inc

• Mariesa Herrmann, Mathematica

• Angela M. Cox, Vanderbilt University

• Ellen B. Goldring, Vanderbilt University

• Mollie Rubin, Policy Studies Associates