Describes a study of 185 California principals' perceptions concerning eight state-mandated tests. Principals generally lack strong opinions about these tests and seem to accept responsibility for implementing and interpreting them without complaint. Other U.S. states and western nations with more mandated testing experience might help define new…

Given the entrenchment of professional dominance and the decrease in lay influence, the establishment of School Site Councils in California will probably not radically alter the structure of educational governance. The author suggests that if professional power continues to grow unchecked, it will pose a threat to democratic principles. (Author/WD)