Principal Criteria

Criteria for Qualification

for the WELS Principal Credential

1. Understands Scripture, Christian doctrine, the Lutheran Confessions, and their applications in the Lutheran school context

• Ministry Certification is declared by the Conference of Presidents after candidates complete the required religious training as appropriate to their called responsibilities. Generally, this includes 18 religion credits and additional credits in classroom application through Martin Luther College. Graduates of Martin Luther College receive certification as part of their training. All others work with their district president and the Martin Luther College Office of Ministry Certification to complete their training.

2. Is an effective classroom instructor

• Three years of teaching
• Proficient or above ratings on a recent teaching evaluation

3. Has characteristics for Lutheran leadership

• Two letters of recommendation
• Proficiency or above ratings on a recent administration evaluation

4. Demonstrates competence in WELS Principal Standards

• Master of Science in Educational Administration from MLC

OR

• Equivalent coursework in other graduate leadership programs and/or
• Demonstrated experiences