Who takes ultimate responsibility for what happens in a public school?

The principal is the individual who takes ultimate responsibility for what happens in a public school. This role encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, including creating a safe and productive learning environment, overseeing school staff, managing budgets, and implementing educational programs. The principal is accountable for ensuring that the school's mission and policies are upheld and that the needs of students are met.

While other roles, such as the head teacher and the school counselor, play important parts in the educational process, their responsibilities are more specific and do not carry the overarching authority and accountability that the principal holds. The school board does have significant influence and responsibilities regarding policy decisions and governance, but it is the principal who manages day-to-day operations and directly impacts the school community. Thus, the principal is at the forefront of leadership within the school.