This study examined high-school principals' perceptions of their preparedness for their financial responsibilities. The participants were high-school principals from the state of Wisconsin. Surveys were sent to 150 high-school principals who were members of the Association of Wisconsin School Administrators (AWSA), Wisconsin's professional organization for school principals. Sixty-five (43.3%) principals completed the survey. The study examined high-school principals' perceptions of their preparedness in four financial areas; budget, financial management and accounting, internal controls, and financial accountability. Findings included a perceived lack of financial preparation and indicated that principals learn more about their financial responsibilities through on-the-job experiences. This study postulates five practical recommendations that may improve principal preparation programs and provide various financial staff development opportunities for high-school principals. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]