What Texas Principal Certification Test Do I Take?

If you want to become a school principal in Texas, you must take a content exam that focuses on the challenges that typically come with accepting this school leadership position.

The Texas principal certification test you are required to pass is the TExES Principal 268. Here are some of the areas this exam covers, tips for successfully taking this exam, and the other requirements you must meet to be a principal in Texas.

TExES Principal 268 Overview

The TExES Principal 268 exam evaluates your knowledge and skills across several key areas necessary for effective school leadership. The exam framework is divided into six domains that align with the Texas Principal Standards, ensuring that aspiring principals are equipped to manage schools effectively and foster student success. 

These six domains include:

1. School Culture: Focuses on establishing a school environment that promotes equity, inclusivity and a focus on high student achievement.
2. Leading Learning: Examines your ability to guide instructional practices that enhance teaching and learning outcomes.
3. Human Capital: Assesses your competency in hiring, developing and retaining effective educators.
4. Executive Leadership: Covers strategic planning, ethical decision-making and implementing a vision for school improvement.
5. Strategic Operations: Tests your knowledge of managing resources, budgets and school operations efficiently.
6. Ethics, Equity and Diversity: Ensures you are prepared to uphold professional integrity and create a school climate that respects diversity.

The test is computer-based and includes multiple-choice questions, as well as constructed-response questions requiring short written answers. To succeed, candidates need a thorough understanding of leadership strategies and their practical applications in real-world school scenarios.

8 Tips For Taking The TExES Principal 268 Successfully

Preparing for the TExES Principal 268 exam requires a strategic approach to ensure you demonstrate mastery in all tested domains. Here are some tips to help you succeed:

1. Understand the exam structure. Familiarize yourself with the six domains and their competencies. Knowing what each section evaluates allows you to focus your preparation on areas where you may need improvement.
2. Use study guides and resources. Leverage official study guides, practice tests and preparation courses offered by approved programs. These resources are tailored to the exam's content and format, giving you a clearer idea of what to expect.
3. Develop a study schedule. Allocate regular time to study each domain, breaking the material into manageable sections. Consistent, focused study sessions are more effective than last-minute cramming.
4. Practice time management. The TExES Principal 268 includes both multiple-choice and constructed-response questions. Practice answering questions under timed conditions to ensure you can complete the exam without rushing.
5. Enhance your writing skills. The constructed-response portion requires clear, concise and well-organized answers. Practice writing responses to sample scenarios, ensuring you can articulate your ideas effectively and support them with evidence.
6. Focus on real-world applications. The exam emphasizes applying theoretical knowledge to practical situations. Think about how you would handle common school leadership challenges and use examples to support your responses.
7. Join study groups or seek mentorship. Collaborating with peers or seeking guidance from experienced principals can provide new insights and enhance your understanding of key topics.
8. Take care of yourself. Rest, nutrition and stress management are vital. Ensure you are physically and mentally prepared on test day to perform your best.

By combining thorough preparation with practical experience and self-care, you’ll increase your confidence and readiness to excel on the TExES Principal 268.

Other Requirements To Become A Texas Principal

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

• 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
• Hold a valid classroom teaching certificate
• Have two years of creditable teaching experience as a classroom teacher
• Successfully complete an approved principal educator preparation program (in which you’ll complete the Performance Assessments for School Leaders (PASL) during your internship)
• Successfully complete the required exams (TExES Principal 268)

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, and building a collaborative culture that fosters teamwork and building an inclusive school atmosphere.

The PASL helps determine whether you’re ready for the challenges that typically come with being an elementary principal or secondary principal.

By understanding the requirements, thoroughly preparing for the TExES Principal 268 and demonstrating your readiness through the PASL, you’ll be well on your way to becoming an effective and impactful school leader in Texas.