Engaging a Lutheran School Principal

Engaging a new principal for a Lutheran School is both a wonderful opportunity and a significant challenge.  The school principal is a leader who will join you in creating a vision for your school ministry.  The school principal is an administrator who will manage the finances, programs and personnel of a significant educational ministry which will contribute to the formation of many children. The school principal is an entrepreneur who will be a partner with you in responding quickly to needs of the community and changes in the environment. The school principal is a master teacher who will lead an educational program in which children will develop life long values, skills and a love of learning. The school principal is a director of public relations who will interpret your school’s program and ministry to the congregation and community. The school principal is a disciple, a fellow member of the body of Christ, who will strive to keep the school firmly rooted at the cross with the grace of God surrounding all that you do.

Important task for the school governing board? It is probably the most important task and decision you will make as a member of the board! God has placed you in this role for a reason. It is possible you have never had to hire an employee in your life. Remember, Noah had never built an ark before either.

This document provides a school board guidance in the action steps requested in the process of hiring a principal. Every congregation and school has unique traditions and environments. This resource contains steps we believe important in every situation to make the process effective and satisfying.

Pray throughout the process. Pray for discernment. Also take the time to look and listen for the answers God has provided. Our prayers are answered before they ever enter our minds and hearts.

May the Lord of the Church lead you to the person of God's choice to lead your school.

Step 1:  Closure with existing principal
Step 2:  Responsibilities and authority for engaging new principal
Step 3:  School Principal Job Description
Step 4:  Salary and benefits package
Step 5:  Secure names of candidates for the position of school principal
Step 6:  Screening and Selecting a School Principal
Step 7:  Actively seek to have your candidate accept your invitation to serve
Step 8:  Welcome, orientation, and installation
Step 9:  Nurture and Support of the School Principal

See also
Eight Steps to a Successful Executive Director Evaluation PDF Format
Director/Principal Assessment Questionnaire PDF Format
Sample Administrative Policy PDF Format