Prioritizing people: personalizing principal preparation programs

Purpose The researchers sought to gain insights from award-winning principals on the importance of preparing future-ready principals. The researchers purposefully selected principals who were recipients of the NASSP Principal of the Year award. The study was designed to gain a deeper understanding of their perspectives on preparing future administrators for current and future challenges. Design/methodology/approach Our research team interviewed 30 award-winning principals to gain an understanding of the needs of preparing principals in the current context of school leadership. The interviews, which lasted approximately an hour each, were transcribed and coded to identify themes across the participants. Findings Key themes included the importance of prioritizing people in K-12 leadership preparation, providing early career support, and engaging in networking throughout the principal’s professional journey. Implications provide direction for preparation programs and districts to better support early-career school leaders. Research limitations/implications Although the NASSP award process involved a nomination procedure and rubric criteria, the selection process did not use other indicators of success. Future research may focus on a different set of success considerations beyond public accolades. Practical implications The research can inform principal preparation programs to better support leaders as they navigate turbulent times. It also provides guidance to school districts in establishing mentorships and provides principals with direction on networks. Social implications The findings from this study provide guidance for universities in preparing principals, districts in supporting their growth and development, and principals in establishing their own professional networks. A focus on prioritizing people in preparation and in-service support requires intentionality in an age of challenges and change. Originality/value The principals were selected because of their exemplary service to the field of school leadership. Understanding their perspectives on how to improve the field provides a unique lens for principal preparation.