“I am here for the students”: principals’ perception of accountability amid work intensification

Abstract Increasing job duties and responsibilities associated with the changing role of school principals have prompted even greater accountability. As a result, are faced competing demands expectations in various forms accountability from multiple stakeholders. This study examines principals’ perception context work intensification particular focus on question “accountable to whom why.” A total 1434 practicing responded an online survey that sought determine groups individuals feel accountable, why accountable those or groups. The achieved response rate 52.68%. research results show balancing accountabilities concerning students has become daunting task for principals. if not conflicting (federal state/provincial) educational authorities, teachers, parents, students, interest often pose significant challenges add complexity role. unrealistic imposed make it imperative critically examine identify essential legislatively mandated principalship better reflect address their intensified realities.