This study examines how teachers assess the performance of principals based on a national survey of teachers. The survey asked teachers to rate principals on aspects of instructional leadership. The results showed that teachers tended to rate principals of the same gender or race more positively. Specifically, female teachers consistently gave female principals higher ratings, finding them more helpful and supportive as leaders. Teaching experience was also found to correlate with higher performance ratings from teachers, rather than other experience like administration work. Overall, the study aimed to understand what characteristics make for an effective principal from the perspective of the teachers they oversee.