October is National Principals Month—a time to celebrate you, the leaders at the heart of our schools. Across the country, tributes are pouring in to honor your tireless work, resilience and dedication.

But behind thank you cards and social media shout-outs, many of you quietly yearn for something more lasting than praise. Recognition is meaningful, but what you truly need is a voice that is heard and respected—not just for one month, but every day.

 And yet, you still show up in the hallways with a smile and an open door. You lead systems. You hold buildings together. Too often, however, you do it without a voice at the table where the real decisions are made.

As a former teacher, assistant principal and principal, I’ve lived this reality. I’ve felt the weight of expectations without the tools to meet them, and I’ve seen brilliant leaders burn out—not for lack of passion, but lack of support. Now, as president of the American Federation of School Administrators (AFSA), I hear your stories every day: demonstrating courage, creativity and commitment—but also frustration, fatigue and exclusion from critical conversations.

You are asked to implement mandates that often don’t fit your school or community. You are expected to produce results quickly and flawlessly, without adequate time, support or resources. What other profession carries this level of responsibility yet is so rarely consulted in shaping policy?

That’s why having a union matters.

At AFSA, we raise the issues that allow school leaders to drive student success. Whether advocating for manageable workloads, standing up for staff, securing mental health resources or protecting professional autonomy, our focus is on empowering principals to create the conditions where students thrive.

If we are serious about improving schools, district, state and federal leaders must understand the true value of principals year-round.

For decades, Chicago principals worked without a contract, sidelined as second-class citizens. That changed after the Chicago Principals & Administrators Association spent years organizing, lobbying and winning legislation for collective bargaining and arbitration rights. Their first contract, ratified in August, marks a historic breakthrough—proof of what’s possible when school leaders unite.

Maryland illustrates the cost of sidelining principals. The Blueprint for Maryland’s Future promised billions in new education funding but largely ignored the voices of those who lead schools every day. As a result, principals now face unfunded mandates, rigid timelines and inadequate resources—challenges that directly affect students.

The Blueprint rightly raised teacher pay, but it failed to extend that same recognition to assistant principals and principals who work year-round. These leaders deserve compensation that reflects their CEO-level responsibilities and advanced training—essential steps to ensuring strong leadership in every school.

Compounding the problem, principals remain excluded from the Maryland State Board of Education, even as teachers, parents and students hold seats. AFSA locals, with their allies, are working to change that by adding a certified, active principal to the board—ensuring school leaders finally have a voice in shaping statewide education policy.

Thriving students require thriving schools, and thriving schools require empowered principals. You build the conditions for learning, create cultures of safety and high expectations, support teachers, guide families and uplift students. You are shaping the future.

We don’t lead because the system makes it easy. Often, we lead despite it. So this October, yes, celebrate yourself. Thank yourself for showing up every day with courage and care. But then go further: insist on the voice, respect and trust you deserve. Advocate for the resources your school needs. Push for policies that reflect your reality. Connect with fellow leaders and share your truth.

If you don’t have a union or are not yet a member, consider what it would mean to have one. A union isn’t just about contracts—it’s about community, protection and power. It ensures your voice is not just heard, but also counted.

At AFSA, we will continue to fight for you—not just in October, but every day. We will push for legislation that strengthens school leadership, demand the funding that supports your growth and ensure your voice is heard in every room where decisions are made. Because great schools begin with great leaders. Students benefit when your expertise and leadership are honored.

This Principals Month, let’s do more than celebrate. Let’s commit to change.

Thank you for all you do. I am proud to represent you.