Certain characteristics, behavioral traits, and ethical qualities are essential for principals' effectiveness. Expediency and effectiveness rarely coexist. Through daily acts of omission and commission, principals profoundly affect what is valued in schools. Some guiding principles are outlined, along with sample situations (parent-teacher…

Changes in administrative procedures can help schools achieve their goals. Principals must cultivate the necessary networking and empowerment by providing staff members with training, time to review their philosophies, and access to student data. These approaches helped a Virginia high school adopt total quality management and block scheduling.…

The "ideal" principal is facing a world of decentralized school structures, increasing and changing environmental boundaries and roles, less homogeneous schools, closer contact with stakeholders, and a market-driven view of education. Principals should view themselves as environmental negotiators, not merely school-system managers.…