National School Principals’ Day is a special occasion dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the hard work, leadership, and dedication of school principals across all educational levels, from elementary through high school.

Quick Facts

When is it: May 1st annually
Tagged as: School & Education
What’s the hashtag: #SchoolPrincipalsDay, #NationalSchoolPrincipalsDay
When was it founded: Early 1990s
Who founded it: Janet M. Dellaria from Trout Creek, Michigan

History of National School Principals’ Day

Janet Dellaria, a Michigan-based teacher and social worker, established this day with support from various teachers’ associations. The initiative aimed to recognize principals’ vital role in creating positive learning environments and their impact on students’ academic success.

Timeline

  • 1635: Boston Latin School established as first public school
  • 1742: Bethlehem Female Seminary founded as first girls’ boarding school
  • 1979: U.S. Department of Education established
  • 1990s: School Principals’ Day officially recognized

Dates by Next Year (2025-2030)

YearMonth and DateDay
2025May 01Thursday
2026May 01Friday
2027May 01Saturday
2028May 01Monday
2029May 01Tuesday
2030May 01Wednesday

How It’s Observed

Communities celebrate by organizing special events, writing thank-you notes, decorating school offices, and showing appreciation through social media posts. Students and staff often plan surprise celebrations or assemblies to honor their principals.

Fun Facts About School Principals

  • Principals typically arrive before and stay after school hours
  • Most principals begin their careers as teachers
  • They often substitute teach when needed
  • Principals influence student achievement significantly
  • They manage both educational and administrative responsibilities

Quiz

  1. When is National School Principals’ Day celebrated?
  2. Who founded this special day?
  3. What state was the founder from?
  4. What’s the official hashtag?

(Answers: 1. May 1st, 2. Janet M. Dellaria, 3. Michigan, 4. #SchoolPrincipalsDay)

FAQs

Q: Is it different from Principal Appreciation Month?
A: Yes, Principal Appreciation Month is celebrated in October, while Principal’s Day is on May 1st.

Q: How can students celebrate?
A: Students can write thank-you notes, organize events, or create appreciation videos.

Related

  • National Teacher Appreciation Week
  • World Teachers’ Day
  • National Parents as Teachers Day
  • School Administrators Week
  • Education and Sharing Day