Top 11 Elementary School Principal Certifications

Certifications are important for an elementary school principal in the job market because they demonstrate a high level of knowledge and expertise. They show that the candidate possesses the skills and qualifications necessary to lead an elementary school effectively. Certification also helps prospective employers gauge the candidate’s commitment to the profession. Furthermore, certifications can open up additional opportunities for career advancement, as some districts may require principals to have specific certifications in order to qualify for higher-level positions.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Elementary School Principals, and explains how they can help to advance an elementary school principal's career.

What are Elementary School Principal Certifications?

Elementary school principal certification is a professional certification program designed to prepare educators to become effective school administrators. It focuses on the development of skills and knowledge necessary for successful leadership in elementary schools. The program typically involves coursework in educational administration, school law, budgeting and finance, curriculum development, and personnel management.

The certification provides individuals with the opportunity to demonstrate their proficiency in leading an elementary school and provides them with a competitive edge when applying for jobs as principals or assistant principals. With this certification, individuals will have the knowledge and experience necessary to effectively manage staff and resources, develop relationships with students and parents, create safe learning environments, implement curricular programs that foster student achievement, evaluate instruction and assessment practices, handle disciplinary issues appropriately, maintain compliance with district policies and state regulations, oversee budgeting processes, collaborate with community partners, advocate for student needs within the district system.

By obtaining this certification individuals are demonstrating that they possess the necessary qualifications to lead an elementary school towards success. It serves as evidence of their commitment to excellence in educational leadership and can provide employers assurance that they have chosen someone who is capable of managing an elementary school effectively.

Pro Tip: When pursuing elementary school principal certification, look for programs that offer a comprehensive curriculum with a focus on best practices in educational leadership. Ensure that the program includes courses on budgeting, instructional management, and personnel management. Additionally, look for programs that provide opportunities to gain real-world experience in a school setting.

Related: What does an Elementary School Principal do?

Top 11 Elementary School Principal Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Elementary School Principals today.

1. National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) Certification

The National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes the leadership and management skills of elementary school principals. It is designed to help principals demonstrate their commitment to excellence in education and improve their effectiveness as educational leaders.

It takes approximately 18 months to complete the NAESP Certification program, which includes completing an online application, passing an examination, attending a two-day workshop, and submitting a portfolio of evidence demonstrating successful completion of the program requirements.

To get certified, applicants must have at least three years of experience as an elementary school principal or assistant principal. They must also meet certain educational requirements, such as having a master’s degree in education administration or related field.

The cost for the NAESP Certification program is $1,250 for members and $1,500 for non-members. This fee covers the cost of the online application and examination fees, as well as all materials needed for the two-day workshop.

2. Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) Certification

The Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) is a non-profit organization that provides accreditation for educator preparation programs. CAEP accreditation ensures that teacher preparation programs meet high standards of quality and effectiveness in preparing educators to serve all students.

To be eligible for CAEP accreditation, an educator preparation program must meet rigorous standards set by the council. These standards include requirements related to curriculum, faculty qualifications, student outcomes, assessment practices, and more.

It typically takes one to two years for an educator preparation program to become accredited by CAEP. The process begins with the program submitting a self-study report that outlines how it meets the council's standards. This report is then reviewed by a team of experts who evaluate the program's performance and make recommendations for improvement. Once these recommendations are addressed, the program can apply for official accreditation from CAEP.

The cost of obtaining CAEP accreditation varies depending on the size and complexity of the educator preparation program. Generally speaking, however, most programs will spend several thousand dollars on fees associated with self-study reports and other materials required for review by the council's experts.

In addition to providing assurance of quality and effectiveness in teacher education programs, CAEP accreditation also has many practical benefits such as increased access to federal funding sources and increased recognition from state licensing boards. For these reasons, many educator preparation programs seek out CAEP accreditation as part of their commitment to excellence in teaching education.

3. National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) Certification

The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) is a nonprofit organization that provides voluntary certification to teachers in the United States. This certification is designed to recognize and reward excellence in teaching, as well as provide evidence of a teacher’s commitment to their profession.

In order to become certified, teachers must complete an extensive application process and demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and dispositions through a series of assessments. The process typically takes two years to complete and includes both online components and face-to-face meetings with assessors. The cost of the certification varies depending on the state in which the teacher resides. Generally speaking, it costs between $2,000 and $4,000 for the entire process.

The NBPTS certification is highly respected and sought after by many educators who are looking to further their career in teaching. It demonstrates a teacher’s commitment to professional growth and development, as well as their dedication to providing high-quality instruction for students.

4. Educational Leadership Constituent Council (ELCC) Certification

The Educational Leadership Constituent Council (ELCC) Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes the knowledge and skills of school leaders. It is designed to provide recognition for those who have demonstrated expertise in educational leadership, as well as to promote the development of effective school administrators.

To become ELCC certified, applicants must complete a rigorous application process that includes an online application, a written essay, and an oral interview with members of the ELCC Certification Board. The application process typically takes between four and six months to complete.

In order to be eligible for ELCC certification, applicants must have at least five years of experience in educational leadership roles and must demonstrate knowledge in areas such as curriculum development, budgeting and finance, personnel management, student services, instructional leadership, community relations, and technology integration. Additionally, applicants must hold a master’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university.

The cost of becoming ELCC certified varies depending on the applicant’s individual circumstances. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$1,000 to apply for certification. This cost covers the application fee as well as any additional fees associated with taking the required exams or completing other requirements necessary for certification.

5. International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) Certification

The International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize educators who have demonstrated their knowledge, skills, and commitment to using technology in their teaching practice. It is the most widely recognized certification program for educators who use technology in their classrooms.

The ISTE Certification process takes approximately six months to complete. To get certified, applicants must first submit an application that includes a statement of purpose, a resume or CV, and evidence of current teaching experience. Once accepted into the program, applicants must then pass three exams: the Foundations Exam, the Core Exam, and the Specialty Exam. The Foundations Exam covers basic concepts related to educational technology; the Core Exam tests knowledge of instructional design principles; and the Specialty Exam focuses on one specific area of educational technology such as online learning or digital citizenship.

The cost of ISTE Certification varies depending on which components are included in your certification package. The initial application fee is $150 USD and each exam costs $50 USD. Additionally, there are optional courses available for purchase that can help prepare you for taking the exams.

Overall, ISTE Certification provides educators with recognition for their expertise in using technology in education and helps them stay up-to-date with best practices and emerging trends in educational technology.

6. Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD) Certification

The Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD) Certification is a professional development program designed to recognize educators who have achieved the highest level of achievement in their field. This certification is available to all educators, including teachers, administrators, counselors, and other educational professionals.

The ASCD Certification Program requires that applicants demonstrate a mastery of the core principles of curriculum design, instruction, assessment, and leadership. The program consists of three components: an online self-assessment exam; an online portfolio review; and an on-site interview with an ASCD representative.

Applicants must complete all three components within six months in order to be eligible for certification. The cost of the program varies depending on the level of certification sought. For example, the cost for Level 1 Certification is $1,250 USD while the cost for Level 2 Certification is $2,500 USD.

In addition to the cost of the program itself, applicants should also consider any additional fees associated with travel and lodging expenses if they are required to attend an on-site interview or portfolio review session.

7. National Institute for School Leadership (NISL) Certification

The National Institute for School Leadership (NISL) Certification is a professional development program that provides school leaders with the knowledge and skills they need to be successful. The program is designed to help school administrators, principals, and other school leaders develop their leadership skills and increase their effectiveness in leading their schools.

The NISL Certification Program consists of four courses: Foundations of School Leadership, Strategic Leadership, Instructional Leadership, and Organizational Leadership. Each course is designed to provide participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead their schools effectively. The courses are offered online or in-person at various locations throughout the United States.

It typically takes about 18 months to complete the NISL Certification Program. Participants must complete all four courses within this timeframe in order to receive certification.

To get started on the NISL Certification Program, interested individuals should visit the NISL website and fill out an application form. Once accepted into the program, participants will receive access to course materials and will be able to begin taking courses at their own pace.

The cost of the NISL Certification Program varies depending on which institution offers it as well as how many courses you decide to take. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $2,000-$4,000 USD for all four courses combined.

8. American Association of School Administrators (AASA) Certification

The American Association of School Administrators (AASA) Certification is a voluntary certification program for school administrators. It is designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of school administrators and to promote professional growth in the field.

To receive AASA Certification, applicants must meet certain criteria, including having at least three years of experience as a school administrator, holding a valid state license or certificate, and completing an approved AASA program. Applicants are also required to pass an exam that covers topics such as educational leadership, curriculum development, budgeting, and personnel management.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete the requirements for AASA Certification. The cost of the certification varies depending on the program chosen by the applicant. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$2,000.

To get started with AASA Certification, applicants should contact their local AASA chapter or visit their website for more information about eligibility requirements and application procedures.

9. National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA) Certification

The National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA) Certification is a professional credential that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated excellence in school public relations. It is designed to recognize and reward those who have achieved a level of proficiency and expertise in the field of school public relations. This certification is offered to individuals who have worked in the field for at least three years, or those who have completed an approved NSPRA program.

It typically takes two to four years to complete the requirements for certification, depending on the individual's prior experience and knowledge. The process includes completing an application form, submitting a portfolio of work samples, and taking a comprehensive exam. Once all requirements are met, applicants will receive their NSPRA Certification.

To get certified, individuals must first meet the eligibility requirements set by NSPRA. These include having at least three years of experience in school public relations or having completed an approved NSPRA program. Applicants must then submit an application form and provide documentation of their experience and knowledge in the field. They must also submit a portfolio of work samples that demonstrate their skills and abilities as a school public relations specialist. Finally, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam administered by NSPRA before they can be certified.

The cost for certification varies depending on whether or not you are already an NSPRA member. For non-members, the cost is $175; for members it is $150. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam or purchasing study materials.

10. International Center for Leadership in Education (ICLE) Certification

The International Center for Leadership in Education (ICLE) Certification is a professional credential that recognizes the expertise of educators in the field of educational leadership. It is designed to provide educators with the skills and knowledge they need to be successful leaders in their schools, districts, and communities. The ICLE certification program is based on five core competencies: instructional leadership, organizational leadership, communication and collaboration, data-driven decision making, and cultural proficiency.

To receive the ICLE Certification, applicants must complete a series of courses and assessments over a two-year period. The curriculum includes both online and face-to-face instruction. During this time, participants learn about best practices in educational leadership and develop their own individualized plans for implementing these strategies within their own organizations.

Applicants must also submit evidence of their work experience in educational leadership as well as letters of recommendation from colleagues or supervisors who can attest to their ability to lead effectively. After completing all requirements, applicants will then take an exam administered by the ICLE which assesses their mastery of the five core competencies.

The cost for the ICLE Certification program varies depending on the type of coursework completed and other factors such as location. Generally speaking, it costs around $2,500-$3,000 USD to become certified through ICLE.

11. National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) Certification

The National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes the knowledge and skills of experienced school leaders. The NASSP Certification is designed to provide school administrators with the opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to excellence in educational leadership.

To earn the NASSP Certification, applicants must complete a rigorous self-assessment process, which includes completing an online application and submitting evidence of successful school leadership. Applicants must also demonstrate knowledge and experience in areas such as curriculum development, instructional leadership, student achievement, personnel management, budgeting and finance, and school law.

The entire process typically takes between six months and one year to complete. During this time applicants will be required to submit evidence of their qualifications for review by a panel of experts. Once all requirements are met, applicants will receive their NASSP Certification.

The cost for the NASSP Certification varies depending on the applicant’s state or country of residence. Generally speaking, it costs between $100 and $500 USD for the application fee alone. Additional fees may apply for additional services such as background checks or transcript reviews.

Do You Really Need a Elementary School Principal Certificate?

The short answer is yes. To serve as an elementary school principal, most states require that you have a valid administrator certificate. This is because the job of a principal requires specialized knowledge and skills in order to effectively manage the daily operations of an elementary school.

The primary responsibilities of an elementary school principal are to ensure a safe learning environment for students, support staff members, and oversee the curriculum and instruction plans for the school. Principals also handle budgeting, hiring and firing decisions, managing student records, communicating with parents and community members, and implementing policies. These tasks require knowledge of state laws and regulations, as well as sound decision-making skills.

In addition to having an understanding of educational policies and procedures, principals must be able to motivate teachers and staff members in order to create a positive learning environment for students. They should also be able to build relationships with parents and community members in order to foster trust in their school’s leadership.

Having a valid administrator certificate proves that you have met the necessary qualifications for this position. It demonstrates your commitment to education by demonstrating that you understand how schools operate on all levels—from classroom instruction to administrative management. Moreover, it shows that you have taken the time to learn about best practices for managing both personnel and resources within a school setting.

Overall, obtaining an elementary school principal certificate is essential for those who wish to become an effective leader in this field. It provides evidence that you possess the required knowledge and skills needed for success in this role.

Related: Elementary School Principal Resume Examples

FAQs About Elementary School Principal Certifications

1. What is an Elementary School Principal Certification?

Answer: An Elementary School Principal Certification is a credential that demonstrates a professional has the skills and knowledge to lead a school as its principal. It is awarded after completing an approved educational program and passing the requisite exam.

2. How do I become certified as an Elementary School Principal?

Answer: To become certified as an Elementary School Principal, you must complete a state-approved educational program in school administration or leadership and pass the appropriate certification exam.

3. What qualifications are needed to be eligible for certification?

Answer: Generally, candidates must hold a master’s degree in education or other related field, have at least three years of teaching experience, and demonstrate their knowledge of school leadership principles and practices through completion of an approved educational program in school administration or leadership.

4. Is there any continuing education required for certification renewal?

Answer: Yes, typically states require that principals maintain their certifications by completing continuing education credits each year. The number of credits varies by state but generally includes topics such as changes in laws, new technologies, and best practices in school administration and leadership.

5. Are there any other requirements to maintain certification?

Answer: In addition to meeting continuing education requirements, most states also require principals to meet certain standards of performance each year in order to keep their certifications active. This may include evaluations from supervisors or peers, successful completion of designated projects or initiatives, or other measures of success set forth by the state board of education.