Principal Selection Process
Planning to become a school principal? Review the process.

In planning for future principal vacancies, Fairfax County Public Schools maintains a pool of eligible candidates who have participated in a series of rigorous competency-based assessments. When a principal vacancy is determined, candidates in the principal pool can express interest. Current FCPS principals are automatically considered candidates in the pool.
The process for candidates to be admitted into the FCPS principal pool includes three screening steps: application assessment, online assessment, and in-person assessment. Once candidates are admitted into the principal pool, they have an opportunity to engage in professional development led by experienced FCPS principals.
Principal vacancies are announced to FCPS principals and candidates in the FCPS principal pool. The interview process for a specific principal vacancy includes a school-community panel interview, region leadership interview, and superintendent interview.
Principal Selection Pool Process
In planning for future principal vacancies, Fairfax County Public Schools maintains a pool of eligible candidates who have participated in a series of rigorous competency-based assessments. When a principal vacancy is determined, candidates in the principal pool are provided with an opportunity to express interest. Current FCPS principals are automatically considered candidates in the principal pool.
Information Session Dates and Times
- Wednesday, October 4, 2023 | 8 a.m.
- Thursday, October 5, 2023 | 4 p.m.
Sessions will be held virtually.
Principal Pool Application
The principal pool application is currently open. It will close on December 4, 2023.Annual Principal Pool Application Windows
Window 1 (Fall) Application
- April through Early September: FCPS Principal Pool Advertises
- Mid-September through Mid-October: Screening of Qualified Applicants
- End of October: Principal Candidate Pool Determined
Window 2 (Spring) Application
- November through Mid-February: FCPS Principal Pool Advertises
- February through March: Screening of Qualified Applicants
- April: Principal Candidate Pool Determined
Questions?
Email [email protected] or call 571-423-3113.