Principal Readiness: A Comparative Case Study of Alumni Preparedness After Completing a Principal Preparation Program

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Saturday 9:45 am
  In Roundtable Session: Reimagining Leadership Preparation

Abstract

This comparative case study explores the perceived readiness of early-career school leaders who completed principal preparation programs at two public universities. Using the National Educational Leadership Preparation (NELP) standards as a guiding framework, the study analyzes alumni reflections on how program elements supported their development across key leadership domains. Alumni insights reveal how preparation programs shaped their leadership identity and ability to address real-world challenges. The study highlights areas of strength, such as instructional leadership and adult learning, while identifying gaps in equity-focused preparation and stakeholder engagement. Findings inform actionable recommendations for improving program design, enhancing field experiences, and strengthening the alignment between theory and practice in principal preparation.

Authors

• LaMonica Williams, Purdue University

• Marlon I Cummings, Governors State University