This paper explores the idea that two important elements are represented within the personality of the most effective principals: the heart of a patriot and the mind of a saboteur. Notions about these sources of principal power are explored from the perspective of the patriot saboteur, by which is meant a combination of a passionate commitment to…

This information packet contains journal articles, book chapters, conference papers, and ERIC clearinghouse publications on small schools management strategies for superintendents and principals. Topics cover (1) elements of formal team management; (2) role of the administrator in creating the environment necessary for effective schools; (3)…

Based on interviews of 68 key administrators, a survey questionnaire given to 345 principals and districtwide administrators, and a shortened questionnaire given to 177 teachers in 68 New Jersey and Pennsylvania school districts in 1981, this study examines how educators seek assistance to strengthen educational programs and promote change.…

The Commission on School-Based Administration appointed in Maryland in 1985 examined six factors bearing on the effectiveness of the principalship: (1) the role and function of the principal, (2) preparation programs, (3) certification requirements, (4) selection practices, (5) professional development practices, and (6) evaluation practices. This…

Principals can meet the challenges posed by the educational reform movement only by identifying and confronting each dilemma and exerting educational leadership amidst all the confusion. This report discusses leadership dilemmas and suggests effective strategies for resolving them. The title of each chapter is in the form of a question. The…

This report is the fifth in a series on cultivating excellence in education for the purpose of training and retraining school leaders of the 1990s. The role of school administrators, and especially building principals; the characteristic administrative functions; the step-by-step procedures for implementation; and the advantages and possible…

Reviewing and incorporating previous research findings, this essay develops a paradigm for future research on the contribution of school administration to student achievement. The paradigm focuses on the discretionary behavior of school administrators in an attempt to yield implications for policy and practice as well as for research. The…

The role of assistant principal has changed very little over the past 50 years. Now this traditional role must be reconceived as a position parallel to that of the principal, but with responsibilities in specialized areas. The new position should include decision-making authority and should possibly require certification from the state. Studies on…

The purpose of this study was to specify and test a methodology for deriving competency statements for the role of principal, using a need assessment technique derived from system theory. A national sample of secondary school principals was selected from a group of principals previously identified for their overall excellence in developmental…

THIS INVESTIGATION WAS TO EXPLORE THE POSSIBLE INFLUENCES OF ORGANIZATIONAL CLIMATE AND ITS ELEMENTS (AS DEPICTED BY THE CENTRAL OFFICE ADMINISTRATIVE PERFORMANCE TEAMS IN SELECTED SCHOOL DISTRICTS OF THE STATE OF OHIO) ON THE INNOVATIVENESS OF A SCHOOL DISTRICT. THE "ORGANIZATIONAL CLIMATE DESCRIPTIVE QUESTIONNAIRE," WHICH SERVED AS THE…

Describes a conceptual framework that provides for the principal to be the "school leader" but not the "instructional leader." Defines the principal's primary duties as program planning, implementation, and evaluation. Discusses implications of framework on training and practice. (Author/NEC)

This paper examines the role of individuals in positions of responsibility (POR) during the implementation of two different curriculum innovations: curriculum integration and performance-based assessment. In addition to addressing the lack of knowledge of department heads' role in implementing innovations, the report explores the effectiveness of…

This paper discusses the stories of six female principals who encouraged the development of teacher leadership in their schools. The findings emerged from a phenomenological study on women principals' lived experiences with leadership. The document opens with a discussion of the research methodology used in the study, followed by brief discussions…

This paper reports on the experiences of schools that are attempting to change into dynamic, responsive, data-driven organizations that allow for learning at all levels. It identifies aspects of leadership that appear to be significant and discusses the problems the schools encountered. The sample for the study, conducted from 1995 to 1997, was…