A fun classroom question. As the teacher for a day, you choose the lesson and the games. As the principal for a day, you make the rules for the whole school. What would you do with your power?
The case for “Be the teacher for a day”
- You could teach your favorite subject.
- You would choose the class games.
- You could give out fun rewards.
The case for “Be the principal for a day”
- You could add an extra recess for everyone.
- You could change school lunch for a day.
- The whole school would follow your rules.
Who picks which side
Kids who love one subject choose teacher, so they can teach it their way. Kids who love big ideas and rules choose principal, so they can change the whole school. Teachers love this question because student answers are often hilarious and insightful.
Our take
Principal for a day, for the extra recess alone. Teachers get to have fun in one class, but the principal can make the whole school smile.
Keep the debate going
Follow-up: what is the first rule you would make?
Make it harder
- Teacher, but for a class of 100 kids.
- Principal, but for a school of grown-ups.
- Your teacher becomes the student for the day.
In one line: Classroom boss or school boss. Find more like it in our school would you rather questions.
Frequently asked questions
What would kids change as principal?
Common answers include longer recess, pizza every day, no homework and pets in every classroom.
What is harder than it looks?
Most students realize after thinking that both jobs involve a lot of planning, patience and responsibility.
