This book presents research-based guidance for transitioning into the principal position and negotiating its most complicated challenges, examining how new principals adapt to the role, set an instructional agenda, and build cooperation and collaboration. It focuses in particular on the dilemmas that mark the principalship-the inevitable, complicated conflicts that arise from a clash of worthwhile values and resist simple solutions, such as: addressing demands of various stakeholders; accomplishing limitless tasks in limited time; sharing leadership duties while maintaining ultimate responsibility; creating a safe space while building bridges to the outside world; and balancing work and home life. Based on original research conducted with new principals in an urban environment, and rich with authentic voices discussing real conflicts and proven strategies, this book presents pragmatic ways to manage the most difficult parts of the job.