Israeli School Principals Earn Significantly Above Average Salary
School principals in Israel earn substantially more than the average worker, with elementary school principals averaging around NIS 24,000 gross per month and secondary school principals earning approximately NIS 27,500. These figures predate recent salary agreements that further increased pay scales. New principals start at about NIS 19,000, while experienced principals in complex schools can reach NIS 26,000 to NIS 28,000, with principals of large high schools exceeding NIS 30,000. For comparison, the minimum wage is NIS 6,443.85, and the average salary for a salaried employee is between NIS 14,000 and NIS 15,000.
Salaries are determined by a separate pay scale for principals, influenced by three main factors: educational attainment, seniority, and the school's complexity. School complexity is assessed annually based on a formula that counts classrooms, doubles special education classrooms, and adds weight for junior high classes. There are eight complexity levels, ranging from schools with up to six classrooms to institutions with over 24. Principals with eight consecutive years in their role are protected from salary reductions if their school shrinks, retaining the higher of their current complexity level or the average of the previous four years.
A principal's position involves a 40-hour work week, with only six to nine hours dedicated to teaching, depending on school size. The remaining hours are allocated to managing staff, budgets, supervision, and communication with parents and local authorities. First deputy principals, who teach 18 to 21 hours weekly, typically earn between NIS 15,000 and NIS 20,000, receiving a management bonus on top of their teacher's salary. The significant salary jump occurs upon appointment to a principal position.
To become a principal, candidates typically need a master's degree, a teaching certificate, and at least four years of teaching experience, or a combination of teaching and management experience. Successful candidates undergo an assessment center and a funded training program. While alternative paths are rare, progression often involves moving between schools or joining educational networks offering additional compensation. Some strong local authorities may provide perks like a car or phone.
Compared internationally, the gross salary for Israeli principals is comparable to their counterparts in the US and Germany when converted to shekels. However, Israel's higher cost of living and progressive tax system can narrow the net difference. German public sector principals also benefit from a budgetary pension and social security exemptions.
