Many new principals seek a professional guide that is simple, current, to-the-point, and enjoyable to read. This book can be used by beginning principals as a personal reference for the demands of the stressful and important job. The guidelines presented in this book are grade-level neutral-intended for the principal of K-12 public, charter, or private schools. More than 100 references and recommended readings are provided. The book contains the following chapters: (1) Important Things You Need to Know Up Front; (2) Becoming an Effective Leader; (3) Your Areas of Responsibilities; (4) Ensuring That Your School Is a Safe Place; (5) Providing Instructional Leadership; (6) The Off-Site Community; and (7) Summary Self-Assessment: Characteristics of the Ideal Principal.