Power
Everybody wants you—well, your attention—they want your attention.
In the eyes of teachers, students, and parents you are the most important person on campus. You are the decider.
You play a role in doling out punishment and praise. You mentor and encourage kids, sending them on their way to be successful graduates. You can be their buddy, shoot hoops with them at recess, and cheer them on during the school play. You can also give them detention, or send them packing if they don't follow the rules. You're responsible for everyone's welfare.
But you're not simply in charge of the students—you're on the hook for leading your teachers and staff. You're the one reviewing their performances and are responsible for hiring and firing.
It's also on you to fight for additional resources for your school and staff.
The school's successes and failures are your successes and failures. If your test scores are low, students aren't getting into good colleges, or if they're dropping out—that's on you just as much as the kids that ace the SATs and get into Harvard.
You'll celebrate and accept awards and accolades on behalf of your student body for their achievements and successes; and you'll have to stand up and face the world if things go wrong. In being a leader, you not only have to rule but also guide and protect.
Remember—no matter how you cut it—with great power comes great responsibility.