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The purpose of this study is to identify the set of key skills and dispositions needed by secondary school principals to function as effective disciplinarians. A secondary exploration is the perceptions of males and females concerning this topic. Based on the results of this study, the skills and dispositions identified to be most needed are to be fair while establishing a positive school climate. Also identified as most needed are the dispositions to be honest, trustworthy, straightforward and ethical. Being an effective communicator is also identified as an essential skill. A frustration expressed by practitioners was the unique issues surrounding the discipline requirements of students with special needs. An additional frustration was expressed concerning the lack of knowledge and ability teachers possess in maintaining classroom control and managing discipline issues.

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Dr. Williams is an Associate Professor at Grand Valley State University. Dr. Williams offers a diverse educational background, including numerous years of classroom teaching and school administration in the educational system from the pre-kindergarten level to graduate university teaching.

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