A principal can provide support for beginning teachers by gaining specific knowledge of each teacher's curriculum, by developing rapport, and by encouraging teachers in seven key areas. Rapport is built with friendly, solicitous behavior and a lot of listening; it can be destroyed by too much criticism, insensitivity, and aloofness. A principal must model rapport-building behaviors, which include both verbal and nonverbal emotional cues. The seven touchstones for beginning teachers include knowing and accepting self, building self-confidence, developing positive attitudes, planning, involving students, identifying students' levels, and knowing colleagues. Support is the critical factor that a principal must supply for a successful school year. (FWR)