Jennifer, Principal at California High School: Advize Career Interview
A career in education offers diverse and rewarding opportunities, as evidenced by California High School's Principal's journey.
Starting with instructional aid work at UCLA and Teach for America, this individual progressed through elementary teaching and assistant principalships to a principalship, managing all aspects of a school's operation.
The role demands multitasking, clear communication, and the ability to be a "warm demander," balancing high expectations with support.
The greatest rewards include witnessing student success and the deep trust placed in educators by families.
While the work is demanding and requires constant problem-solving, encompassing various support roles beyond teaching, the variety and impact on young lives make it incredibly fulfilling.
Entry-level positions like early education aids are readily available, providing valuable experience. Success in education requires passion, a student-centered approach, and the willingness to have difficult conversations.
The Principal's personal journey reflects the importance of exploring diverse interests during college and prioritizing passion over societal expectations.
This individual's experience provides a compelling example of a dynamic and impactful career path in education.
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Jennifer Movsessian
Principal
California High School
UCLA 2013
LMU- Masters in Elementary Education and CSUSM Masters in School Administration
Political Science, American Studies
Education
Education
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Career Path Of A Principal At Los Angeles Unified School District
Jennifer's career path began with instructional aid work at UCLA and a private Armenian school, followed by a Teach for America placement in early education. This led to elementary teaching, including roles as an assistant principal and, ultimately, a principalship at a Los Angeles Unified School District early education center.
Main Responsibilities of a Principal at California High School
Jennifer, a Principal at California High School, is the sole administrator at their early Ed centers, making them a "one-man show" responsible for all aspects of the school's operation, from budgeting and hiring to instruction, professional development, teacher evaluation, and coaching. This highlights the significant breadth and autonomy involved in their leadership role.
A Day in the Life of a Principal at California High School
A typical day for the Principal begins early, checking emails and addressing staff absences before welcoming families and students. The day unfolds with a mix of meetings, professional development, classroom observations, direct student interaction, and constant communication with staff and parents, reflecting the dynamic and multifaceted nature of the role, with the Principal noting that "every day is different".
Most Important Skills For A Principal At California High School
Jennifer, a high school principal, identifies multitasking and clear articulation as crucial skills, emphasizing the need to convey information "quickly and concisely" within time constraints. The most insightful point is the importance of being a "warm demander," balancing high expectations with supportive guidance to achieve long-term systemic improvements for staff, students, and families.
Favorite Parts Of Being A Principal At California High School
Jennifer, a high school principal, finds the greatest joy in "seeing kids smile every day," highlighting the positive energy and enthusiasm for learning that students bring to their school. This demonstrates a deep satisfaction derived from the impact Jennifer has on the school community's positive atmosphere.
Biggest Challenges Faced by a Principal at California High School
Jennifer's biggest challenge as the sole administrator at California High School is balancing "all operations and all instructional pieces," often finding instructional priorities sidelined by operational demands, particularly post-pandemic. This conflict highlights the difficulty of prioritizing passion for instruction when burdened with extensive administrative responsibilities.
Favorite Parts Of Working In The High School Industry As A Principal
Jennifer, a high school principal, finds the most enjoyable aspect of her career the daily variety and the deep trust families place in her and her colleagues; "every day is different," and the responsibility of caring for "other people's kids" is taken "very seriously."
What Type Of Person Thrives In The Education Industry According To A Principal At California High School
Jennifer, a high school principal, identifies passion for the work and a student-centered approach as key traits for success in education, stating that it's "not about the money," but rather a "major time commitment." This dedication to students is paramount for those who thrive in the demanding field.
What A Principal At A High School Wishes They Had Known Before Entering The Education Industry
Jennifer, a high school principal, reflects that the role demands constant problem-solving and extends far beyond teaching, encompassing "being a therapist, the support person, an ear for families," requiring a multifaceted skillset. The work is demanding, "your brain is working all the time," yet ultimately rewarding and fulfilling for those embracing its diverse responsibilities.
Entry-level positions for aspiring Elementary Aides at California High School
Jennifer, a Principal at California High School, highlights that "Early Education Aids" are entry-level positions available to those with a high school diploma, offering rewarding opportunities in early childhood education for undergraduate students interested in the field. These positions include "Elementary Aid work," making them accessible and beneficial for those seeking experience.
Significant Career Lesson From a Principal at California High School
Jennifer, a high school principal, emphasizes the importance of "hav[ing] difficult conversations," even when uncomfortable, for building trust and team success. These conversations, encompassing both praise and constructive feedback, are crucial for leadership and moving forward.
College Experiences That Helped a Principal at California High School Succeed
Jennifer, a high school principal, found success by actively exploring various interests during undergraduate studies in sociology and political science, taking "any opportunity that had something around education" and relevant electives. This exploration, coupled with the experiences gained, enhanced Jennifer's marketability and prepared the individual for a career in education.
How Identity Has Influenced a Principal at California High School's Career
Jennifer, an Armenian woman and high school principal, shared how cultural expectations to pursue careers like "doctors and lawyers" influenced career choices within the community. The principal encourages students to prioritize passion, stating, "you can be successful in any role that you're passionate about," thus advocating for career paths aligned with individual interests over societal pressures.
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