JOURNAL ARTICLE

Instructional Leadership Plus : Central Office Leaders Rethink the Principalship.

  • Published In: Educational Administration Quarterly, 2025, v. 61, n. 5. P. 809 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Neumerski, Christine M.; Goldring, Ellen; Cox, Angela; Rogers, Laura; Moyer, Anna; Rubin, Mollie 3 of 3

Abstract

This study examines how central office leaders in U.S. school districts have reconceptualized the role of the principal in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Drawing on interviews with 155 central office leaders conducted in 2021 and 2022, the research identifies five expanded domains of principal practice beyond traditional instructional leadership: establishing resilience, implementing problem-solutions, centering equity, fostering wellbeing, and developing political savviness. These domains reflect the complex social, political, and operational challenges schools face post-pandemic and suggest a shift toward a more holistic and adaptive principalship. The findings imply potential changes in principal preparation, professional development, and central office support to align with these evolving leadership demands.

Additional Information

  • Source:Educational Administration Quarterly. 2025/12, Vol. 61, Issue 5, p809
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Education
  • Publication Date:2025
  • ISSN:0013-161X
  • DOI:10.1177/0013161X251335335
  • Accession Number:189133588
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