They are fondly remembered by pupils from the secondary and primary schools they governed during the 90s and noughties.
Whether you were top of your class or regularly found yourself getting called to the headteacher’s office, you will remember these men and women who helped to shape your education.
Looking after one child can be hard enough so these stalwarts of the community who helped hundreds of youngsters flourish under their guidance deserve huge respect.
This retro photo gallery shows them with their pupils, teachers and special visitors to their schools throughout the 1990s and 2000s.
One is pictured taking the controls of a digger to cut the first sod at a new school site, another is seen welcoming the late Queen Elizabeth II, and a third is shown being subjected to a ‘gunging’ in the name of charity.
Is your old headteacher pictured in this gallery, and can you recognise any of your old teachers or classmates?
Do you have retro pictures or nostalgic memories to share with us? Send them online via YourWorld at www.yourworld.net/submit. It's free to use and, once checked, your story or picture will appear on our website and, space allowing, in our newspapers.

1. King Edward VII Lower School
Headteacher Cath Auton and her husband Rod, the deputy headteacher, are given a surprise presentation to mark their retirement from King Edward VII Lower School in Sheffield Photo: Steve Ellis

2. Parkwood High School
Chris Mallaband, headteacher at Parkwood High School, in Shirecliffe, Sheffield Photo: Steve Ellis

3. Hinde House School
Jim Reid, Bo Robshaw (careers advisor at Hinde House), Helen Reid and headteacher Sarah Draper at Hinde House School, Sheffield, in 2002. They were celebrating after the school was given a top award for the work it has done to prepare pupils for life in the outside world. Photo: Hurndall Ross Media

4. Hucklow Primary School
Hucklow Primary School headteacher Roger Simonds, who announced his retirement after 21 years' service, is pictured with pupils past and present. Photo: Mike Waistell