The authors have adopted the stance that the position of the secondary school department head in Ontario is unique. This booklet is intended to contain some theory, but has been devised to be relevant to the everyday needs of the department head. It is hoped that the problems are stated in realistic terms and that the solutions to these problems offered in as practical a manner as possible. Major sections are devoted to discussions of leadership, organizational development, staff development, communication, and curriculum evaluation. There are certain themes that run through the entire text. One is the desirability of involving all department members in department decisions. Another is the need for the department head to spend a great deal of effort in developing and improving the skills of working with people--the growth of sound interpersonal relationships is fundamental to an effective department. A third theme is that the department head wears many hats, and the criterion of a good head is how well these hats fit. (Author/IRT)