This book argues that principals must not only manage their schools, but more important, they must direct the learning in the schools. Chapter 1 describes the rewards, meaning, and challenges of an effective, learner-centered principalship. Chapter 2 details the personal and professional qualities of an effective principal, and chapter 3 describes the major roles of a learner-centered principalship. The legal basis for and limitations of the principal's authority are addressed in the fourth chapter. Chapters 5 and 6 offer suggestions for creating an effective learning climate and handling student-adjustment problems. The final four chapters provide strategies for improving staff competence, directing the organization of instruction, evaluating teaching staff members, and documenting teacher effectiveness. Twenty figures, nine tables, and an extensive bibliography are included. (LMI)