The Massachusetts Performance Assessment for Leaders, or PAL, is to evaluate the readiness of school leadership candidates for initial licensure in the Commonwealth. This system enables principal/assistant principal candidates to demonstrate their leadership knowledge and skills based on actual experiences within their schools as part of a preparation pathway and to meet licensure requirements. This assessment is comprised of four performance-based tasks that measure a candidate's practice as it aligns to the Professional Standards for Administrative Leadership. Unlike standard paper and pencil tests, PAL includes performance assessment tasks that more closely reflect the authentic work of school leaders.
The PAL is a licensure requirement for all principal/assistant principal candidates.
As a reminder, beginning July 1, 2016 candidates will need to meet an overall passing score of 2.75.
Last Updated: June 27, 2023
Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education 75 Pleasant Street, Malden, MA 02148-4906
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