THE IMPACT OF TARGETED PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT ON PRINCIPALS’ INSTRUCTIONAL LEADERSHIP AND THE CULTIVATION OF POSITIVE SCHOOL CULTURE
Effective principal leadership is the cornerstone of effective schools, as it has been shown to increase student success. In the State of Wisconsin, there is currently no requirement for ongoing professional development for principals. This study examined the impact of professional development targeted at principal leadership on student achievement and school culture. Using a mixed methods approach, results showed principals who participated in a yearlong principal cohort indicated their leadership skills improved. The qualitative data showed the participating principals believed the targeted professional development was collaborative, reflective, relevant, and actionable. This research indicates that sustained, targeted professional development is crucial for increasing principal capacity and retention. It is recommended that educational leaders in the State of Wisconsin make a professional development requirement for continued administrative licensure.
principals, professional development, leadership, education, instructional leadership, school culture, Adult and Continuing Education and Teaching
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