Examines perceptions of principals and beginning teachers. Finds agreement on several issues: the nature of first-year teachers' problems, the importance of Fall orientation, and the helpfulness of mentors. Identifies two issues that principals overlooked: the importance of the principal's role in the induction process and the beginning teachers'…

Outlines the principal's key role in mentor programs for beginning teacher induction: initiating the program, defining the needs of beginning teachers, selecting mentors, defining mentors' roles, providing training for mentors, staying personally involved with both mentors and beginning teachers, and evaluating the program. (SV)

Describes a study of principals and beginning teachers at Catholic schools in Nebraska to determine what induction methods were most effective. Reports findings related to the expectations that principals and beginning teachers had of each other and differences between desired and actual assistance provided by the principal. Includes suggestions…

Presents findings from a 1988 survey of first year Catholic school teachers in the Omaha archdiocese. Considers teacher characteristics, teachers' preparation to teach religion and model religious values, problems in the transition from college to teaching, and the need for staff development. Discusses implications of the findings. (PAA)