As part of the evaluation of the College of Education at the University of Tennessee, an annual survey is conducted to obtain principals' ratings of graduates who are certified beginning teachers. This survey has enjoyed a response rate in excess of 90 percent. The survey is conducted by mail, with one mail followup, and occasional telephone followups. The first step is to identify the specific school locations of the teaching graduates. Then the survey forms and cover letters are mailed to the principals. One followup letter and another copy of the questionnaire are sent to those 15 to 29 percent who have not responded after four weeks. Telephone calls are also made, but such calls have not exceeded three in any of the three years discussed. Five different introductory cover letters are used, as well as personal individualized letters when indicated. Return envelopes are provided, and the letters are prepared on high quality letterhead stationery. These procedures are satisfactory in producing a high response rate. The three-page questionnaire, which is appended, includes demographic information, a rating scale of teacher effectiveness, and a check list of factors which influenced the principal to hire this teacher. (GDC)