The purpose of this study was to compare the background and career expectations and aspirations of men and women in public school administrative roles. The study reported differences in factors that affect movement through the professional ranks, such as perceived constraints on career progress and salaries. A total of 327 Michigan elementary and secondary principals, as well as federal program specialists, were surveyed. The data revealed that, while there are certain similarities between male and female school administrators, differences exist in background, education, administrative experience, and means of promotion (internal or external). A greater proportion of male school administrators indicated lack of training, education, or experience as constraints on their career progress, whereas sex discrimination was perceived as a career progress constraint by a greater proportion of female administrators. While no difference was found between men's and women's salaries when controlling factors were held constant, more women administrators indicated less congruence between their career expectations and career aspirations than men. (Author/DS)