As schools across the country continue to grapple with educator shortages and mounting leadership challenges, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) introduced a resolution this week recognizing the critical role of assistant principals. The resolution seeks to designate the week of April 7 through April 11, 2025, as “National Assistant Principals Week.”

Co-sponsored by Senator Martin Heinrich (D-NM), the resolution aims to shine a spotlight on the essential leadership assistant principals provide in schools—from guiding instructional strategy to fostering positive school climates and addressing the evolving needs of both students and staff.

“Assistant principals play a critical role in schools by cultivating a positive learning environment for students and providing essential support to faculty and staff,” said Durbin in a statement. “I’m introducing this resolution to recognize the work of assistant principals.”

The recognition comes at a time of significant upheaval in the education sector. A 2022 report by the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) found that four in ten principals were considering leaving the profession within three years—a troubling sign amid a nationwide teacher shortage and declining pipeline of future school leaders.

The resolution highlights the increasingly complex duties of assistant principals, who oversee day-to-day logistics like attendance and scheduling, while also serving as mentors, instructional leaders, and community liaisons. Their work has a direct impact on teacher satisfaction and retention, both of which are crucial in stabilizing school environments.

The measure has earned support from major education groups including NASSP, the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP), and AFSA.