This master's thesis describes the relationship between effective principalship and student achievement, school climate, and discipline. It also examines the connection between self-esteem and a principal's effectiveness, student achievement, and student behavior. The conclusion is that "the performance of the principal is a strong determinant of the success of the school as a learning community." The belief system of the principal plays a focal role in creating a negative or positive school climate and culture. Principals need to have a realistic vision for their schools and a plan to achieve it. They must also collaborate with teachers, parents, and the school community. The school community should be encouraged to participate in decision making. Self-worth has a definite impact on the effectiveness of the principal and on student achievement and behavior. Approximately one-half of this document is an appendix that supplies recommendations to principals regarding student achievement, behavior, and self esteem, presented in the form of questions posed to teachers, principals, students, and school administrators with their comments and answers. (Contains 86 references.) (DFR)