In larger school systems, a
principal is often assisted by someone known as a
vice-principal (
Republic of Ireland:
deputy principal) or
assistant principal. Unlike the principal, the vice-principal does not have quite the decision-making authority that the principal carries. Although they still carry nearly the same authority among students, vice-principals do not have the same power on the board. Experience as an assistant principal is often a prerequisite for advancement to a principalship.