A Guide for Principals and Administrators

Being a Seventh-day Adventist school principal is an awesome opportunity and responsibility to serve God, change lives, and further the mission of the world church. Although many things are asked of school principals that can seem overwhelming at times, ultimately it is a position that can strengthen an individual’s personal walk with Christ while being professionally rewarding. Those who assume this role and responsibility are to be affirmed for their commitment and dedication to this ministry.

There are few other positions in the Seventh-day Adventist church that allow an individual to have such a wide-ranging impact as that of school principal. From the influence a principal has on the faculty, staff, individual students, and their families to the broader impact a vibrant school can have on the greater community, the importance of the role a principal plays as the leader of a school cannot be overstated or underestimated. It is a position that must be approached prayerfully, purposefully, and with a continually renewed commitment to excellence.

Much is asked of Seventh-day Adventist principals. To some extent they are expected to be a school’s curricular expert, facilities manager, mental health therapist, chief financial officer, records keeper, community liaison, spiritual leader, and educational visionary. This handbook is intended to be a resource for those who have answered the call to mission as a Seventh-day Adventist principal. It offers guidance and support on some of the critical issues that a principal will encounter in the position.