This study explores the relationship between emotional labor (EL), in the form of surface acting and deep acting, emotional intelligence (EI), and the degree of experienced burnout in school principals. School principals in one Pennsylvania County were surveyed using an electronic instrument. The survey consisted or: (a) demographic questions, (b) EL scales, (c) EI scales, and (d) burnout scales. The data was analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM), to determine if EL served as a mediator or moderator in the relationship between EI and burnout. Surface acting was determined to be a partial mediator between EI and burnout. Results indicate a significant negative relationship between EI and surface acting, a significant positive relationship between surface acting and burnout, and a significant negative relationship between EI and burnout. The relationship between EI and deep acting was approaching significant and had a positive association. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]