The South is part of a dramatic education reform movement championed by a group of progressive governors and motivated by a desire to improve the region's economic future by bettering the education of its work force. Most southern states have significantly raised certification standards, teacher salaries, and per pupil expenditure. Georgia's Quality Basic Education Act (1985) is a comprehensive bill designed to improve every aspect of public education. This composite study, conducted by the Professional Standards Commission, summarizes the findings of four other principalship surveys completed between 1982 and 1985. The first part presents findings and recommendations, along with a summary of relevant data from the four commission studies and the national literature. The second part highlights demographic profiles and views of Georgia teachers, principals, and superintendents, noting significant differences. Major issues needing to be addressed are work force imbalances; school leadership equity problems; the principal's role; educational administration program quality; principal recruitment, selection, and professional development; teacher supply and demand; discipline; public commitment to quality education; and the implications of political, geographic, economic, and cultural diversity. Included are tables, charts, appendices, and a 20-page bibliography. (MLH)