The Principal's Hot Seat: Observing Real-World Dilemmas transcends traditional educational leadership case study books, featuring video footage of fifteen aspiring principals assuming the principal's role to face unique, unpredictable dilemmas recreated by real principals. One by one, the principals are challenged to think on their feet and respond to agitated teachers, angry students, and irate parents in a way that reflects their knowledge of the law, school leadership standards and their own styles. From questions over the appropriateness of eighth grade reading material, to a report of possible child abuse and teachers' turf wars, readers feel the intensity common in today's principalship.

Every action in this unscripted exercise has been captured on DVD, giving readers a unique opportunity to thoroughly evaluate the principals' performance related to speech, body language, and presence. In addition to DVD footage, each scenario features background information and a complete transcript of the conversation, allowing for careful analysis of the principal's performance. Each scenario also includes specific questions for reflection and discussion, valuable suggested readings and resources, and potential internship experiences.