As a coordinator of a teacher preparation program, students often stop by this author's office to inquire about the school's program. Some of them are interested in becoming elementary school principals. However, they have not yet realized the importance of "earning your stripes" before moving into a leadership position. Many of them assume that it is possible to begin preparation for an administrative position upon completion of a bachelor's degree or a teaching credential, and think nothing of omitting teaching experience. What they do not realize is that principals have complex and challenging jobs, and they must be skilled and experienced in numerous areas not covered by their training. The work of an elementary school leader requires multiple skills, and knowledge about teaching, instructional leadership, organizational management, and the change process is central to a successful principalship. The author explains that good teaching is at the center of successful schools, and that the practices and beliefs of principals related to instruction determine their success as instructional leaders. How principals acquire the skills they need to become accomplished leaders is dependent on their experiences as teachers.