No matter what variables of personal leadership style may exist, certain constant qualities mark the effective principal. Since accountability presupposes effectiveness, you may wish to check your leadership traits against those discussed here. (Editor)

Interviews with outstanding principals identify the characteristics and skill areas of outstanding administrators. Exceptional administrators are knowledgeable in all areas related to the educational process. (MD)

This article surveys the last 10 years of collective bargaining in education, pointing out the resultant benefits and problems. The author concludes that professionals must grow up" in their negotiations, spending more time on the vital questions of education and less on monetary or personal benefits. (Editor)

Negotiations between teachers and boards of education often lose sight of the real goal of schools: educating youth. In this article, the author urges that principals protect the learning environment of their schools by ensuring that contract provisions are consistent with sound educational philosophy. (Editor)