Principals from 76 urban public charter and private (Catholic) schools located in three midsized cities participated in a sequential explanatory investigation measuring perceptions of key elements related to school administration. Topics include students, selves, and elements related to the job of principal. Findings indicate that most principals view few administrative tasks as very challenging yet regard experience and skills as very important. Principals also perceive high level of authority over areas related to instruction. Comparisons by school type indicate close alignment of perspectives.