If you find yourself dreaming of an office of your very own instead of the one you currently share with your boisterous students, it may be time to start thinking about moving from the classroom into an administrative role. But before you have your new nameplate engraved (c’mon, you know that’s the FIRST thing you would do!!), let’s determine if you have the necessary credentials needed to be seriously considered as a viable candidate.

1. Update Your Credentials. The school district(s) you’re targeting may require a graduate degree or certification in a specialized area such as school administration or educational leadership. If a return to college is in your future, don’t think you have to put off your dream of an administrative role until it’s complete. Many school systems offer administrative internships or will move you into the role full-time even while you’re completing your studies.

2. Think Outside the Classroom. When putting together your resume and cover letter, you should focus on creating a “big picture perspective” of your responsibilities and accomplishments. If possible, don’t quantify your successes in terms of the classroom population only; rather, focus on the impact you’ve had on the school or district as a whole. This way, your resume and cover letter will focus more on administrative skills such as leadership, teamwork, dedication to the school community, as well as your involvement with committees and school improvement projects.

3. Get Involved. If you’re not already actively participating in the Parent-Teacher Association, school committees, and/or special task forces aimed at school improvement or raising student achievement, now’s the time. Your contributions will demonstrate that you are doing what it takes to support your district’s key goals and objectives. It also shows that you are willing to go above and beyond your specific role to ensure a successful learning community.

4. Read and Research. Look to educational journals, magazines, and Internet websites to learn more about the dynamic changes in contemporary education. Find out who is getting recognition for creativity and innovation, learn about the programs and initiatives they’re implementing, and think about opportunities to incorporate similar changes in your own school or district. In order to be considered as a leader in a school community, you need to show that you have done your homework and are well verse in all the latest teaching methods and issues affecting the present education system. A hiring committee will want to know what you can bring to a school, so it’s a great idea to research some innovative strategies and programs.

5. Spread the Word. Talk to your principal, assistant principal, and other administrative staff, and let them know what you’re trying to accomplish. Most will be happy to offer advice and suggestions, and some might even offer to mentor you in your journey. Your administration offers a wealth of information and resources that could immensely help you in your administration education. So it’s definitely in your best interest to tap into this amazing resource.

6. Enlist the Professionals. Finally, when you’re ready to take the next step, call us. With our resume and cover letter writing expertise, you’ll be sitting in the principal’s office in no time!

Candace Davies, President of A+ Resumes for Teachers, is a Certified Resume Writer, Interview Coach Strategist, and Author of 9 popular educational job search eBooks. She is dedicated to assisting teachers, administrators and other education professionals to advance their careers quickly, easily and with less stress. Visit her website at http://resumes-for-teachers.com/a/main.htm or sign up to receive FREE weekly teaching job search tips, interview questions and answers, and other priceless career advice: http://resumes-for-teachers.com/a/sign-up.htm