An experienced teacher might spend years leading grade-level teams, mentoring new colleagues and organizing schoolwide initiatives only to find a new kind of leadership calling. Arkansas State University (A-State) offers two online degree programs that enable teachers to prepare for roles as a superintendent or principal while continuing to work: Education Specialist (Ed.S.) in Educational Leadership, Principalship and Ed.S. in Educational Leadership, Superintendency.
The transition from classroom teacher to school or district leader often begins with a simple yet pivotal realization: the ability to shape learning goes beyond the walls of one classroom. As education professionals seek greater influence over school policy, instruction and operations, the role of principal or superintendent can determine the scale and scope of their impact.
Role of Superintendent vs Principal
After years on the job, some principals decide to make a career shift and become superintendents. It is a logical step since both principals and superintendents share a commitment to student achievement. Their functions, however, differ in reach and complexity.
Principals are usually the frontline leaders of individual schools, working directly with staff, students and families to foster a strong learning environment. Superintendents, by contrast, lead at the district level, where they manage broad educational goals, budgets and board relations.
Each Ed.S. program at A-State explores the realities of these respective roles. The Principalship curriculum emphasizes instructional leadership and school improvement strategies. The Superintendency program prepares educators for district-wide administration, covering subjects such as finance, business management and governance.
Key Differences and Similarities
Both principals and superintendents must inspire, communicate and make informed decisions, but the environments in which they operate demand vastly different leadership styles and communication skills. According to MegaInterview, principals can be seen as the “face” of their schools, serving as operational leaders within a single building. Superintendents are the “brains” of the school, navigating board politics, community expectations and district-wide planning.
Moving from principal to superintendent is not simply a step up. It is a major career shift. Instead of answering to one person — as is the case for a principal and their supervisor — a superintendent needs to respond to a multi-person board and district leaders. The transition requires leaders to think systemically, manage multiple stakeholders and focus on long-term policy.
While both roles benefit from classroom experience and strong interpersonal skills, the superintendent must strike a balance between educational goals and public accountability. Superintendent-led initiatives are most successful when paired with strong principal support at the school level. In short, policy begins at the top, but outcomes depend on local leadership.
Responsibilities of Both Roles
Day-to-day School Operations: Principals oversee daily operations — everything from instructional supervision to cafeteria schedules. Their leadership has a direct impact on the school climate. Superintendents, though not involved in daily school routines, develop the systems that principals rely on. They set policies, allocate funding and manage personnel across the district.
Liaison Between School, Families and Communities: Community relationships are central to both roles. Principals are highly visible, often the first point of contact for parents and guardians. They build trust through regular communication and active participation in school events. Superintendents focus on district-wide outreach. As ThoughtExchange notes, superintendents must cultivate transparency and alignment across diverse audiences, from school board members to district leaders.
District-level Leadership and Policy Oversight: This area highlights the most substantial difference. Superintendents shape educational policy, oversee compliance and develop strategic plans that affect multiple schools. Their decisions influence curriculum, staffing and infrastructure. Principals contribute to policy discussions but primarily implement the policies established by superintendents.
The Road to Becoming a Superintendent or Principal
Most school leaders begin as classroom teachers before stepping into assistant principal roles or instructional coordinator positions. From there, the Principalship path focuses on managing school culture, evaluating instruction and implementing improvement plans. The Superintendency path demands additional competencies in finance, operations and legislative engagement.
Coursework in the online Education Specialist programs at Arkansas State University reflects these differences. The Principalship program prepares educators for immediate leadership at the school level, with coursework in instructional supervision and responsibilities. Those in the Superintendent program gain deeper preparation in district governance, budgeting and systemic reform — key competencies for leaders tasked with shaping policy and practice across school districts and communities.
For educators looking to expand their reach, both paths offer the chance to lead with purpose. Whether guiding a single school or a whole district, graduates of Arkansas State‘s Ed.S. programs are positioned to create lasting change in education.
Learn more about A-State‘s online Ed.S. in Educational Leadership, Principalship and Ed.S. in Educational Leadership, Superintendency programs.