Education Administrators, Kindergarten through Secondary
Education administrators plan and direct the operations of kindergarten through secondary schools. They manage academic programs, staff, budgets, and student services. These administrators work in public or private schools, school districts, or central offices, overseeing everything from curriculum implementation to facility management and regulatory compliance.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against education administrators, kindergarten through secondary and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves meetings with teachers about instructional strategies, reviewing budget allocations, handling student discipline cases, and coordinating with district office on policy updates. Administrators observe classrooms, meet with parents about student progress, approve hiring decisions, and attend community events. Evening commitments often include school board meetings or attending student activities like sports and performances.
Who this work suits
Holland code SEC. Social work is helping, teaching and working closely with people. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely enjoy influencing organizations and solving operational problems—traits common to people drawn to leadership roles. You're motivated by social impact and building community within schools, and you thrive when coordinating diverse groups toward shared educational goals.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience).
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | $139,390 | $166,590 | $180,540 | 6,470 |
| California | $130,110 | $159,950 | $169,350 | 31,370 |
| Connecticut | $124,030 | $156,240 | $171,910 | 4,610 |
| New York | $106,920 | $138,830 | $171,530 | 19,210 |
| District of Columbia | $114,760 | $137,470 | $166,300 | 1,930 |
| New Jersey | $126,710 | $137,440 | $168,680 | 11,450 |
| Delaware | $125,720 | $132,710 | $136,950 | 1,100 |
| Maryland | $103,570 | $131,510 | $159,630 | 7,200 |
| Oregon | $101,540 | $130,050 | $153,670 | 4,160 |
| Utah | $103,020 | $128,880 | $138,850 | 2,940 |
| Massachusetts | $103,440 | $128,430 | $138,380 | 10,570 |
| Minnesota | $100,000 | $127,000 | $137,720 | 4,120 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Administrator of School Finance and Operations (SFO) — Association of School Business Officials International
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against education administrators, kindergarten through secondary and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 11-9032.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.