Tell me about your participation in extracurricular activities.

What You Need to Know
1st Entry Level Example
1st Answer Example
2nd Answer Example

Whether you have prior experience as an assistant principal or are a tenured teacher interested in taking on more responsibility in an administrative role, keep in mind the role of an assistant principal is highly competitive. An ideal candidate for such a position will have a history of demonstrating a commitment to an organization or school's goals and willingly giving up their time to help achieve those goals. This commitment directly relates to putting their all in to positively impact the school's culture and a commitment to the potential futures of their students.

I've chaperoned a few dances here and there. But there were always other teachers who vied for those opportunities, so I wasn't about to take that honor from them. I consider myself friends with all of my fellow teachers. At first, I loved the stories they'd come back with, and soon, on many occasions, I showed up for those games or hung out and supported them as backup whenever possible. Even though I didn't sign up for those after-school activities every week, I'd show up nonetheless.

"I don't sign up for them every year. There isn't always a program that is suited to my skills. I am not a very sports-oriented person, but I would offer my services anytime we had a program directed at our AP students. It's been a few years, but I've helped with the jazz band, helping organize their performances on and off campus while engaging with and once spearheading our PTO."

"I've coached the football team and directed our after-school photography program and at least one school play every year for the past five years. I took part in other activities prior but adapted to the changing needs of the school. For field trips, detention, and summer school, I am always willing to help and give more of my time. The thing is, I love what I do, and I care. I've always been a team player, and the positive side effect is that all the kids know me, and I feel like we have a great relationship."