The role of assistant principal has changed very little over the past 50 years. Now this traditional role must be reconceived as a position parallel to that of the principal, but with responsibilities in specialized areas. The new position should include decision-making authority and should possibly require certification from the state. Studies on secondary and elementary assistant principals, while few, suggest that both groups are interested in greater involvement with supervision and curriculum development rather than maintenance functions. Many assistants see their position as a stepping stone to the principalship; few see it as a career choice. The current phenomenon of declining enrollments restricts opportunities for advancement. Thus, it is critical to find ways of making the assistant principalship more attractive as a career choice. One solution would have the principal cope with extant problems while the assistant principal is given the legal responsibility to administer new functions. A role in participative decision making would also contribute to job satisfaction. New studies of assistant principals at the national level are needed in order to identify their current status, which is necessary to the charting of their future participation in the leadership and administration of schools. (Author/WD)