Principal Certification Texas: FAQ And Next Steps

Becoming a principal in Texas is a rewarding journey that requires careful planning and access to the right resources.

Whether you’re currently a teacher or you’re an aspiring teacher with the goal of someday becoming a principal, understanding the certification process will help you meet your goal of moving from the classroom to the front office to become a school administrator.

Below we’ll address some of the most frequently asked questions about principal certification in Texas, covering everything from the essential requirements to the exams and programs that will help you reach your goal. By the end, you’ll have a clearer picture of the path ahead and the steps you need to take to become a successful school leader in Texas.

What Are Principal Certification Texas Requirements?

To earn your Texas principal certification, the Texas Education Agency (TEA) requires that you meet five requirements. They are:

1. Hold a master’s degree from an accredited university recognized by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) or U.S. Department of Education Database for Accredited Colleges and Universities
2. Hold a valid classroom teaching certificate
3. Have two years of creditable teaching experience as a classroom teacher
4. Successfully complete an approved principal educator preparation program (in which you’ll complete the Performance Assessments for School Leaders (PASL) during your internship)
5. Successfully complete the required exams (TExES Principal 268)

What Is The PASL?

The PASL, or Performance Assessments for School Leaders, assesses your progress and efficiency as a principal or vice principal. This assessment includes fulfilling tasks that focus on:

• Addressing a problem or challenge within a school environment
• Developing continuous professional development for ongoing teacher and staff growth
• Building a collaborative culture that fosters teamwork and building an inclusive school atmosphere

The PASL is an important step toward becoming a school principal because it helps determine whether you’re ready for the challenges that typically come with entering into a school leadership position. 

What Is The TExES Principal 268?

The TExES Principal 268 is a content exam that prepares educational leaders for their roles in managing students, faculty and staff. You must pass this content exam if you wish to become a principal in Texas.

The TExES Principal 268 content exam focuses on methods used to improve school performance and increase student achievement. This exam is not just a test of knowledge but also an assessment of your readiness to inspire and guide a school community toward excellence.

What Is An Educator Preparation Program?

An Educator Preparation Program (EPP) is a comprehensive training pathway designed to equip individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to become certified educators in Texas. If you have a bachelor’s degree (this doesn’t have to be a degree in education) and are looking to obtain a teaching license in Texas, enrolling in an EPP is a fantastic option. 

These programs offer a blend of coursework, hands-on teaching experience and mentorship, ensuring that you’re well-prepared for the classroom.

But an EPP isn’t just about getting your Texas teaching license. It’s also an excellent foundation for those aspiring to move into school leadership roles, such as becoming a principal. Many EPPs include specialized training and resources that focus on leadership development, preparing you not only to teach effectively but also to manage and inspire a school community. 

By completing an EPP, you’ll be on a solid path to both starting your teaching career and positioning yourself for future opportunities in educational leadership, such as passing the TExES Principal 268 exam and becoming a principal in Texas.

What Should An EPP Offer?

Selecting the right educator preparation program is crucial when earning your Texas teacher certification as you advance in your career. When evaluating a certification program, look for one that:

• Is accredited and included on the Texas Education Agency’s list of approved educator preparation programs
• Combines the convenience of online learning with in-person experiences, offering both flexibility and valuable face-to-face interactions
• Provides access to advisors or field supervisors who have significant experience in educational leadership
• Allows you to complete training and testing concurrently, streamlining the process to meet your certification requirements efficiently
• Avoids treating you as just another participant by offering personalized timelines tailored to your unique needs
• Includes test preparation as part of the program, rather than as an expensive add-on

At this stage in your career, mentorship and support are critical. Even with extensive classroom experience, having guidance from seasoned principals and ongoing support from your program can be beneficial.

Leading educator preparation programs will offer this level of mentorship and emphasize practical, real-world applications, ensuring you are thoroughly prepared to succeed as a principal and make a significant impact in the educational field.