Designed for use by elementary school principals, this guide contains suggestions for (1) assessing the effectiveness of the school reading program, (2) determining the instructional needs of teachers and the reading skill needs of students, and (3) implementing specific strategies to effectively accomplish desired reading program improvements. The first section of the guide deals with developing a working knowledge of reading and covers such topics as reading phases, reading skills, techniques for grouping sudents, instructional methods, and keeping records. The second section discusses the role of the principal in planning, evaluating, and implementing the reading program, while the third suggests ways to improve relations with teachers, parents, and professional organizations; lists helpful magazines and journals; and offers time management suggestions. The fourth section details the principal's responsibilities in staff development, and the fifth provides ideas for building public relations for the reading program. The sixth section contains a schedule for undertaking certain activities, and the seventh describes those activities in detail. The eighth section discusses different kinds of reading tests and offers criteria for selecting appropriate tests. Appendixes contain examples of forms and evaluation instruments, and definitions of reading terms. (FL)