Why Now Is the Best Time to Step Into Educational Leadership
Thursday, April 24, 2025 | 8:00 AM
Schools Need Leaders—Are You Ready?
Every day, 49.6 million students walk into public schools across the U.S. They depend on teachers to guide their learning—but when you pull back the curtain of every successful classroom, there is a strong educational leader ensuring teachers have the tools, support, and vision they need to succeed.
Yet, the education system faces major challenges. 86% of public schools struggle to hire teachers. There’s a variety of reasons. School administrators are retiring, educational policies are constantly changing, and student needs are evolving.
This is where educational leadership makes a difference and why it’s so important. A strong principal can increase teacher retention, improve student outcomes such as graduating and increasing grades.
If you've ever thought about stepping int a leadership role, now is the time to make your move.
The M.Ed. in Educational Leadership Online at UTRGV can help you get there in just 10 months.
What Does an Educational Leader Do?
Educational leadership is about more than administration—it’s about making sure everyone has the tools they need to excel in their roles and ensuring that every student has access to high-quality education. It’s about listening, taking action and being open to unique ways to address challenges.
School leaders are responsible for creating environments where teachers can thrive, where they can raise concerns or offer unique solutions. They make sure students can succeed, and policies are implemented successfully. Their role extends beyond daily operations to strategic planning, mentoring teachers, and creating an environment of continuous improvement that aligns with educational goals.
✅ Support teachers by creating policies that promote retention and job satisfaction
✅ Improve student success by ensuring high-quality instruction and resources
✅ Navigate policy changes to make sure schools comply with evolving standards
✅ Manage budgets and staffing to create efficient, well-run school environments
✅ Lead with vision to foster an inclusive and forward-thinking school culture
Strong leadership is the second most important factor in school-related impacts on student success, right after classroom instruction. Research consistently shows that well-led schools see higher student achievement, improved teacher retention, and a more engaged learning environment. Principals that get things done foster a culture of excellence, ensuring that teachers receive the professional development and resources they need to succeed. Whether it’s technology access, professional development opportunities, classroom management strategies, or tools for instruction, educational leaders give teachers the autonomy and flexibility to teach authentically.
Throughout the year, educators are faced with many challenges. From needing supplies, staying up to date on educational policies, to even being a mentor to students. Teachers who don’t have support from great leaders find themselves overwhelmed and are one of the causes of high turnover rates among teachers.
Why Now Is the Right Time to Step Into Leadership
- The Teacher Shortage Crisis
With 86% of public schools struggling to hire educators, teacher burnout is at an all-time high. Schools need leaders who can support teachers, create a positive work environment, and advocate for better policies to address this crisis.
- Policy Changes & Challenges
Education is constantly evolving, with new curriculum standards, funding structures, and accountability measures. Strong leaders help schools adapt to these changes, ensuring policies benefit both students and educators.
- The Demand for Qualified Administrators
As veteran school administrators retire in large numbers, districts are looking for trained, certified leaders to fill these roles. Schools need more than just administrators—they need visionary leaders ready to guide the next generation.
- The Direct Impact on Student Success
Leadership matters. Studies show that strong school leadership improves student achievement, graduation rates, and overall school culture. A great principal or educational leader can transform an entire school community.
- Salary & Career Growth Potential
Looking for financial stability and career advancement? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average salary for a school principal is over $103,460 per year. Additionally, 20,800 principal positions open annually, creating strong job prospects for aspiring leaders.
How to Become a School Leader in Just 10 Months
Moving forward in your career while balancing professional and personal obligations can be tough. Yet, the M.Ed. in Educational Leadership Online at UTRGV is designed for working educators who are ready to advance their careers without pausing their jobs. The online format allows you to take control of where and when you study. Yes, assignments will have due dates but you’ll have the flexibility to tackle them in the morning before everyone wakes up, or later in the afternoon when things are winding down. It’s up to you.
Here's how the MED in Educational Leadership prepares you for the next step in your career:
The Principal TExES exam—qualifying you for certification
Data-driven decision-making to improve student outcomes
School leadership and administration—from budgeting to policy implementation
Instructional leadership—ensuring high-quality teaching and learning
Equity-focused leadership—supporting diverse student populations
With flexible coursework and real-world applications, you’ll graduate prepared to step into leadership roles like principal, instructional coordinator, or district administrator.
FAQ: Is This Program Right for You?
Q: Do I need to leave my job to complete this degree?
A: No! This program is 100% online and designed for working educators. You can complete your degree while continuing to teach.
Q: What if I don’t want to be a principal?
A: That’s okay! This degree prepares you for multiple leadership roles, including instructional coordinator, curriculum specialist, district administrator, and education consultant.
Q: How long does it take to complete?
A: Just 10 months. This accelerated format helps you earn your degree and certification faster than traditional programs.
Q: How will this degree impact my salary?
A: School principals earn over $103K per year on average (BLS), and leadership positions open 20,800 times per year nationwide. This degree positions you for higher pay and career advancement.
Why UTRGV?
UTRGV’s M.Ed in Educational Leadership program helps graduates become responsive educational leaders to serve any student population.
With opportunity for principal certification, our accelerated online M.Ed. in Educational Leadership program will allow graduates to learn how to effectively direct and advocate for academic excellence as well as lead positive change in today’s schools.
Ready to take the next step in your career, educational leadership could be the perfect opportunity to lead the change in education! Start with UTRGV today, Apply Now!
Source:
https://nces.ed.gov/fastfacts/display.asp?id=372
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