Nowhere is the role of the secretary more vital to the smooth functioning of the system than in the office of a school principal. But in spite of her importance (over 99% are women), traditional educational researchers have not approached this position as a valid topic of study. Casanova - a former elementary school principal - examines the role of the school secretary, bringing recognition to a person who has been too long under-valued, under-paid and under-appreciated. She has broken new ground with an exploration of an occupation where women are the dominant force and on whom everyone depends, from students and parents to teachers and administrators.