The purpose of this study was to examine the rate and reasons for turnover among Virginia elementary school principals over a five year period. Principals responded to a mailed questionnaire examining categories of continuing and departing principals and the factors that influenced their decisions. Personal and professional demographics, extrinsic and intrinsic factors found to be significant in previous mobility studies were compared to those cited by Virginia principals. The five year turnover rate was found to be consistent with earlier predictions, even with the impact of early retirement discounted. Factors contributing to turnover were pressure and stress, financial factors, work demands and factors beyond the principals' control. Although the same factors operate on all principals, departing principals appear to be more influenced by a combination of these factors than continuing principals, who may remain because they feel that they can continue to exert a positive influence. / Ed. D.