The role of assistant principal is one of the least researched and discussed topics in professional journals and books on educational leadership. The ambiguity of the role allows for the ineffective use of this position and makes it a particularly difficult role to fulfill. This book can be used as a guide for practicing assistant principals and as a self-contained staff-development program for aspiring school leaders. Chapter 1 focuses on knowledge and skills essential to effective leadership, and discusses the nature of leadership, types of power, and the practice of leadership through influence and persuasion. Chapter 2 explores the transition from manager to leader. Chapter 3 examines informal groups and their leaders as sources of power that compete with the formal leadership for control. Chapter 4 focuses on public relations and community power agents. Chapter 5 addresses the topic of effective communication and listening. Leadership for instructional improvement is the focus of chapter 6. Chapter 7 focuses on leadership for staff development. Examples of assessment instruments are provided that can be used to determine the effectiveness of staff-development programs and to develop strategies to help teachers master newly acquired knowledge and skills. An appendix contains practical tools and guidelines for assistant principals. (Contains 163 references.) (RT)