This book grew out of the first principals' academy for beginning principals, hosted by the National Catholic Educational Association. Almost 60 principals, all in their first or second year as principals of Catholic elementary/middle schools, from all over the U.S. attended the program. At the conclusion of the academy, the principals wrote brief essays on their most memorable experiences during their first year. Twenty of those essays are collected here in five chapters. Chapter 1 focuses on making changes and building from the ground up. Topics in this section include building a stronger community and new friendships, sowing the seeds of new school spirit, and creating an oasis of stability. The essays in chapter 2 examine ways to create beauty from the inside out and feature titles such as the community of faith, Jesus and joy, and new effort to bring out forgotten beauty. The third chapter features reflections on finding God every day on the job through prayer and scripture, Christian values, and Catholic values, whereas chapter 4 offers meditations on the vocation of being principal and the importance of being called to lead. The last chapter, "Student Love and Appreciation," explores how students can thrive with support and encouragement. (RJM)