Elementary, middle school, and high school principals have a powerful impact on the schools in their charge. These lead administrators mold the atmosphere of a school and, in turn, the feelings of the teachers who work in it. The current teacher shortage combined with the demands of standards-based education has made retaining new teachers a…

Suggests that improving teachers' job satisfaction is paramount in an era where half of new teachers drop out of the profession in the first five years. Discusses sources of teacher dissatisfaction, benefits of collegial investment, shared leadership, support meetings, mentoring, and lessening dissatisfaction. (RS)

Argues that first-year teachers can offer fresh perspectives and rejuvenate spirits, but that they need help in that crucial first year to establish themselves as viable members of the profession. Discusses administrative support, collegial support, networking, and university support for first-year teachers. (SR)