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This descriptive study analyzed the portrayal of females as protagonists in adolescent literature published 1989-1993. A review of literature showed that 85 percent of main characters in stories for young children were male and that sexism still existed in books for young people. For this study the literature survey instrument used in the initial 25 texts is presented, as well as discussion on qualitative sampling. Sixty volunteer graduate student/teachers collected data; 5 were male and 55 female. Some reported difficulty in making judgments on the personality characteristics of the female protagonists. The findings conclude 35-50% of the literature involved female protagonists and both male and female support characters typified the common stereotypes. Female protagonists, though not infrequently appearing in literature, were rarely portrayed beyond their stereotypic, traditional roles. (EH)

Conditions of the principalship that contribute to short-term planning are examined in this report, which also offers strategies for longer range educational integrity. A multiple case study approach was used to explore the experiences of 12 high school principals in 5 states. Over 200 interviews were conducted with principals, teachers, staff, and community members. Major characteristics of the principal's job emerged from the data: brevity, variety, interruption, uncertainty, and fragmentation. Suggested solutions include provision of meaningful internships that incorporate elements of uncertainty and fragmentation, delegation of responsibility, and time management. The recommendation is made for local districts' development of a training package that is comprehensive, flexible, and realistic, providing reflective evaluation and continuous support. Appendices list principals' characteristics and issues identified by them as important. (16 references) (LMI)