The public school principal in Virginia is in a most vulnerable position. Not only must the principal enforce the policies and regulations of the local school board, state mandates, federal laws and regulations, but must also respond to a multitude of daily crises, any one of which could result in litigation.

The primary purposes of this study were to examine and report the current legal status of the public school principalship in Virginia; to analyze and clarify the law as it relates to the school principal's role as both employee and “employer;” and to project trends in the direction which the courts applicable to Virginia appear to be headed.

The courts have been very protective of one's constitutional rights, regardless of whether one is a principal, teacher, or student. Thus, principals should guard against violating the constitutional rights of persons under his charge. However, the courts are also sympathetic to the many problems facing schools and administrators, but do expect them to act in a reasonable and prudent manner.