Learn how to become an Education Administrator or School Principal in Vermont.

To serve as a school administrator, candidates must earn endorsements to add to their existing license. The Virginia Department of Education requires administrative candidates to demonstrate how their education and experience qualify them to become school leaders.

Academic Obligations

Individuals  seeking a concentration  as a school principal must hold at least a master’s degrees and demonstrate competence in the following areas:

• Fundamentals of Educational Administration/Leadership
• School Law
• School Finance or School Business Management
• Staff Evaluation/Development
• Curriculum Management
• School/Community Relations

Administrator candidates must successfully complete 18 credit hours in these areas to be considered for an endorsement as a school principal.

Assessments

As an education administrator, candidates seeking initial Vermont licensure only need to successfully complete the PRAXIS Core Academic Skills Tests. The PRAXIS I tests consist of Assessments in reading, writing, and mathematics, measuring a candidate’s entire skillset.

Administrator candidates must receive scores of 177 on Reading, 174 on Writing, and 175 on Mathematics to be considered for licensure.

The DOE notes that testing obligations may change over time, including adding additional PRAXIS II testing obligations.

Classroom Teaching Experience Requirements

To earn a school principal endorsement, candidates must successfully complete at least 3 years of experience as a PreK-12 educator.

Gaining experience as an educator before becoming an administrator gives the administrator candidate a wealth of background knowledge and communication skills to help drive them to be successful leaders.

Document and Application Requirements

Initial administration license seekers should complete an Initial Educator Application.
During the application process, candidates must indicate that they are seeking a school principal administrative endorsement.

Applicants should include all transcripts and materials of courses completed toward their administrative licenses with their application packets.

Administrator candidates must also complete an oath committing to uphold the U.S. and Vermont Constitutions, a current resume, consent for release of registry info, and a check or money order payable to Vermont DOE – Licensing Office for $160 in processing fees.

Administrator candidates who already hold educator licenses in Vermont may add an administrative endorsement to their current license by requesting a Transcript Review. Applicants should complete the review page and include the worksheet verifying they meet the general skills for school principals.

Background Check Requirements

All educators seeking licensure must undergo fingerprinting and background checking in Vermont. During their application process, candidates must complete a form allowing their background info to be released to the DOE. Administrator candidates may find the form here.

Administrator candidates must also submit fingerprints to the licensing office. The easiest way to acquire an acceptable set of fingerprints to visit local Identification Centers offering fingerprinting services.

State Contacts

If you’re interested in learning additional info about the education administrator licensure process in Vermont, email the DOE at [email protected] or call them at 802-828-2445.