This ready-reference school management tool is a practical guide that provides an answer to the questions "Where do I start?" and "Where do I look for direction?" Written in an easy-to-read, bulleted format, the handbook is an excellent resource for all principals, assistant principals, and aspiring school administrators. With words of wisdom from first-year principals, and voices of experience from more than 60 veteran elementary and secondary principals, this reference book will be used over and over again. The book is organized into five key sections, and each section includes brief overviews, checklists, and suggestions for further reading. Part I, Organization and Management, describes the role of the principal, negligence and liability, media relations, managing conflict and difficult people, effective meetings, resource management, records and information, and facility management. Part II, Teaching and Learning, explores school programs, learning communities, special education, supervision and evaluation, staff development, unions, and celebrating success. Part III, Behavior and Discipline, describes safe schools, code of conduct, supervision and expulsion, search and seizure, and police protocols. Part IV, Health and Safety, considers factors in reporting child abuse, occupational health and safety, emergency preparation, medical needs, and health and safety resources. Part V, Looking After Yourself, concerns professional development, wellness, and balance. Appended are: (1) Entry Plans; (2) Principals' Routines; (3) Regular Monthly Activities for Principals; (4) Getting the School Year Started: Checklists for July, August and September; (5) Professional Conferences: A List of Web Sites; (6) Words of Wisdom: Advice From Beginning Principals; and (7) School Activities and Field Trips. Also included are: (1) a list of resources; (2) a list of references; and (3) an index. [This book is a joint publication with the Ontario Principals' Council.]