Accurately estimating the number of female high school administrators is difficult because (1) comprehensive studies by individual position are nonexistent; (2) most state departments of education do not collect or report such data; (3) limited samples are used in studies; and (4) researchers and reporters tend to aggregate positions. Researchers are divided as to female administrators' progress during the past decade. This situation led to companion studies aiming (1) to determine whether the status of female high school administrators has changed since 1972; and (2) to develop baseline data for monitoring female status in line administrative positions. This paper summarizes study data that addresses the question of women high school principals and assistant principals. The first study examined 44 of the largest U.S. school districts. In the second study, various district types (urban, suburban, medium city, and rural) in Tennessee were examined to see if findings in the largest districts were mirrored in all types of districts in one state. Data were secured for 1972, 1982, and 1986. (The studies will be replicated in 1986.) Results clearly showed gains in status and representation of women high school administrators since 1972, particularly in large city districts. In 1986, women held 23 percent of high school principalships (up from 6 percent in 1972) and 32 percent of assistant principalships (up from 19 percent in 1972). Women are making steady, less spectacular progress in suburban, medium-sized, and rural districts. Included are nine references. (MLH)