Principal Candidate Pool
The CPS Principal Candidate Pool (Pool) is the District's talent bench for Principals. Members of the Pool are individuals who have met the minimum qualifications to become a CPS Principal. Membership in the Pool is a requirement to obtain a Principal position in district-governed schools in alignment with the CPS Principal Eligibility Policy (Policy). View a list of members on the CPS Principal Candidate Pool website. Please note, not all eligible members are included on the list.
Principal Eligibility Process
Successful completion of the CPS Principal Eligibility (Eligibility) process is a requirement to become a member of the Pool and, thus, a CPS principal. Aspiring principals must pass the Eligibility process before they can be selected for a contract, interim, or acting principal position. This applies to all candidates, internal and external alike, and ensures that schools have the most qualified principal candidates prepared to succeed from the first day on the job.
The Eligibility process requires current and aspiring principals to demonstrate evidence of leadership experience related to the CPS Principal Competencies that have resulted in positive school-wide student outcomes across multiple grade levels and subject areas.
Information on the Spring 2024 Principal Eligibility Process is now available. All individuals interested in applying to this cycle should review the Principal Eligibility Process website for additional information and updates regarding the updates to the application process, resources, timelines, FAQs, and more.
April 2024 Cycle Key Dates
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April 8, 2024, 8 a.m.: Online Application Opens
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April 14, 2024, 11:59 p.m.: Online Application Closes
- April 24, 2024: Fingerprinting, Employment Verification, and Essay Verification are due by end-of-day.
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May 6 - 24, 2024: In-person interview dates. (Tentative based on the number of applicants)
Mission: Identify, develop, support, and retain strong principal leaders who are dedicated to student success in CPS.
Vision: Every Chicago Public School has a strong leader providing opportunities for all students to achieve their fullest potential.