The success of high schools depends on the principals. High school principals should concentrate on their schools, use their assistants efficiently, and inspire school pride. According to previous research, the major elements of effective schools include high expectations for practitioners and students, parent involvement, administrative visibility, a disciplined student body, a secure school environment, and proportionate teacher-to-student ratios. The most commonly recognized managerial responsibilities include planning, organizing, staffing, directing, and controlling. When planning, principals should examine the management pool, assess the available resources, and select a time frame that will promote the progress of the plan. Principals should manage time through restrictions on the length of meetings, through a numbered agenda, and through delegation; principals should motivate and communicate with people efficiently; and principals should demonstrate respect, honesty, and consideration toward their staff and students. The elements of efficient leadership include the ability to identify tasks and the ability to inspire other people to accomplish goals. The required characteristics of high school principals are intelligence, communication abilities, trust in subordinates, a willingness to take risks, and the courage to be candid. Included are 15 references. (RG)