The Study
In this report for the Education Policy Center at Michigan State University, Phil Cusick, chairperson of the Department of Educational Administration, examines the shrinking pool of people ready and willing to serve as K-12 principals in Michigan.

Findings
Cusick interviewed superintendents, human relations directors, principals and one administrative team in an effort to see how the issue is playing out in Michigan. Cusick found that with exception of respondents from upscale school districts, which do not have a problem recruiting, everyone he queried said that there was a shortage of candidates. The respondents said that the number of candidates applying for principal positions is now about half to two-thirds the number it was 15 years ago. Cusick identifies some reasons why there has been a decline. One issue is pay. He found that while principals earn $10,000 to $25,000 more each year in annual salary, they work between 20 and 40 more days per year than teachers. “Perhaps more important,” Cusick wrote, “their days are often 10-12 hours long …” Would-be administrators, particularly those raising children, look at the time required and decide not to apply. Another reason for the decline given by respondents was changes in the job itself. Legislative expectations, increase parental demands, and the expanding number of things schools are expected to do increase the number and kind of responsibilities that fall to the principal (school improvement, annual reports, accountability, core curriculum, annual reports, etc.) and make the job less appealing. Cusick outlines some steps that districts and the state can take in order to deal with the problem. One involves school districts working with intermediate offices and area universities to set up cooperative programs to identify potential administrators, recruit them into internships, and create up-to-date training programs. Another involves recognizing that the principal job is a busy, stressful and always-changing position, and districts should provide their principals with both reform-oriented training and with time for professional renewal. Finally, Cusick suggests that the state, in conjunction with professional administrative associations, undertake an examination of the principal’s role to see if it has become unrealistically burdened.

What It Means to You
Have you noticed a decline in qualified applicants for principal positions in your district? Have you considered some of the suggestions that Cusick outlines, including teaming with your intermediate school district and university to identify potential administrators?

For More Information
Cusick, P.A. (2003). “A study of Michigan’s school principal shortage.” Policy Report Number 12. You can read the entire report at the Education Policy Center Web site at www.epc.msu.edu

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