Date
Thursday
May

May 1

School Principals’ Day

Show your appreciation for your school principal this year on School Principals' Day - give them a card, flowers, or even a small gift!

Yearly Date
May 1
Type
Day

Introduction

Celebrate School Principals' Day on May 1 and show appreciation to the amazing school administrators who work hard every day to create an enriching learning environment for students! National School Principals’ Day was established as a way of honoring our nation's school leaders. Since then, it has become a special occasion when schools across the country recognize their principals and thank them for their dedication.

School Principals’ Day Timeline

1800s
Origins of School Principals
In the 19th century, the role of school principals was first established, although they were referred to as headmasters or rectors.
1980
Recognition of Principal's Role
The U.S. Department of Education recognized principals' role in better academic performance and launched Principal Recognition Day in various states.
1990
Principals' Influence Analyzed
A string of studies in the 1990s started to underscore the importance of school principals in affecting change within schools.
2000
Leadership Standards
The leadership standards for principals are defined by the Educational Leadership Constituent Council, forming a basis for preparation and evaluation of principals.
2011
National School Principals' Day
School Principals' Day was officially recognized on May 1st, by Terrence C. Reilly School No.7 in Elizabeth NJ as a day to honor and appreciate school principals.

How to Celebrate School Principals’ Day

1

Host a School Principals' Day Assembly

Organize a special assembly to honor your school principal and all their hard work. Invite school staff, district representatives, and community members to the event. Give speeches, present awards, and have fun activities for kids to show your appreciation.

2

Send an Appreciation Card

Have students, staff, and parents write a card or letter of appreciation to the school principal. Collect them, bundle them up, and send them off with a special delivery.

3

Plan a Surprise Party

Surprise your school principal with a surprise party! Invite other administrators, board members, staff, teachers, and students to celebrate the event. Have snacks, games, decorations and plenty of surprises.

4

Give Gifts

Gift your school principal something that will remind them of their hard work throughout the year. Consider buying something related to their hobbies or interests like books, plants, coffee mugs or even tickets to a show.

5

Organize an Outing

Organize an outing with fellow staff members or colleagues to celebrate School Principals' Day. Take everyone out for dinner or host an outdoor picnic where everyone can enjoy food, games and fun activities together.

Why School Principals’ Day is Important

A

It recognizes the hard work of principals

School principals put in a lot of hard work and dedication to make sure their students succeed. They ensure that the school runs smoothly and efficiently, create new programs to meet the needs of their students, and handle administrative tasks like disciplinary issues. By recognizing School Principals’ Day, we can appreciate all the hard work they put in!

B

It encourages collaboration between teachers, parents & administrators

School Principals’ Day is a good reminder for everyone involved at a school to come together and collaborate on how to best serve their students. It's also a great opportunity for parents and teachers to thank their principal for all the hard work they do to ensure that everyone is successful.

C

It sets an example for students

By celebrating this day each year, it helps set an example for students of how important it is to recognize and give credit where credit is due. By seeing adults take time out of their day to honor someone who has gone above and beyond in their role, it encourages them to show gratitude for all those in positions of authority as well.

School Principals’ Day Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Apr 30
Sunday
2024
Apr 30
Tuesday
2025
Apr 30
Wednesday
2026
Apr 30
Thursday
2027
Apr 30
Friday