A study of educational leadership preparation concerning the assistant principal : perspectives of Missouri principals and assistant principals

Abstract

It is unclear if the initial preparation of educational leaders, in relation to the role of assistant principals (APs), has kept pace with growing demands associated with the position. Little research exists specifically addressing the initial developmental preparation of APs. Elements of a needs assessment and program evaluation combine to build infrastructure for a conceptual framework to guide this study. A mixed method design for this study was determined to be the best method in which to provide answers concerning the proposed research questions. Participants consisted of lead and assistant principals from school districts across Missouri. Quantitative and qualitative data was analyzed for trends. Quantitative and qualitative data was compared to one another in order to attain a thorough and comprehensive examination of collected data.