The position of assistant principal has been virtually ignored and sometimes maligned. Based on perspectives that arise from administrative theory, career development research, and school administration studies, this document describes the special nature of the assistantship, daily work, rewards, and frustrations. Five chapters include: (1) "What Is Special about Assistant Principals?; (2) "How Do Assistant Principals Get Their Jobs?; (3) "Progress in Understanding the Assistant's Role"; (4) "Opportunities for Improving the Assistant Principalship"; and (5) "A New and Different Assistant Principalship." By analyzing the selection and socialization of two assistants, key processes are identified that mold those who become assistants and filter out others. A discussion of the problems encountered by the assistant in his/her work, position, and role is followed by possible policies, programs, and strategies for creative solutions. Two dominant themes are (1) the need to understand the assistant's role and find ways to improve it; and (2) by focusing on the assistant, we can uncover problems and identify new solutions for reconceptualizing school leadership. Each chapter contains its own summary. (150 references) (LAP)