The author identifies 10 phases of the principal development pipeline, some of which are seldom acknowledged and many of which are inadequately addressed. The author argues that various stakeholder groups should collaborate to provide continuous professional development to future and current principals through each phase of the pipeline. Examples…

Principal standards and license requirements in each of the 50 states are analyzed in this qualitative study in light of federal Race to the Top incentives for states to strengthen school leadership preparation and practice. Nineteen states have adopted the 2008 Educational Leadership Consortium Council (ELCC) standards verbatim and the remaining…

The roles and responsibilities of principals are increasingly focused on instructional leadership. In many states, changes in the preparation and credentialing of future principals have been based on recognized leadership standards. Requirements for practicing principals to complete professional development aligned with such standards have also…

A recent survey of teachers and principals at 2,876 randomly selected elementary, middle, and secondary schools disclosed strong support for special certification for middle school teachers and counselors. However, teachers support special certification for principals, whereas principals do not. Both groups support coursework emphasizing…

A new computer-based assessment system will replace the National Teachers Examination by fall 1992. The three-stage system will test state-required basic academic skills during the sophomore year of college, evaluate subject field knowledge and skills using open-ended and multiple-choice questions, and contain a locally based performance…

Discusses the qualifications of certified athletic trainers and their responsibilities. Includes a list of basic requirements for certification approved by the National Athletic Trainers Association. (WD)

Chicago's experience in developing a new certification process for principals is explained in this article. (Editor)

To help secondary schools find qualified journalism teachers and improve the quality of journalism instruction, the Journalism Education Association has designated a commission to establish certification requirements for such teachers. Individuals with teaching credentials and college majors or minors in journalism are considered certifiable. (MLH)

A successful principal stands on a professional base supported by three legs: management, leadership, and knowledge of schooling. Traditional preparation programs shortchanged leadership and management components. This arrticle underscores the relationship between leadership and culture, advocates administrator internships, and recommends an…

Reviews several recent studies of both elementary and secondary principals' roles to explore what principals do to affect learning in their schools. Discusses the relevance of preparation programs and certification requirements. Includes eight referencss. (MLH)

This article describes the results of a project funded by New York state to determine which competencies a beginning principal should have. Essential personnel and management competencies are listed. (Editor)

School principals need more inservice training. This article outlines reasons and methods for developing an effective principal development program. (WD)

Professional growth opportunities in most schools are limited and ineffective. By enabling teachers to participate actively in their own learning, examine current instructional strategies, and determine what they must do to improve, the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards' assessment process and professional development can help…

Reviews the current (1987) certification requirements for principals in the 50 states. Speculates about future changes. Includes four tables. (Author/MD)

According to a recent survey of American School Counselor Association members, the tendency to use non-school-certified personnel to serve school counselor functions is common. Although the association strongly supports collaborative efforts with community agencies, the group is concerned that such services are often provided by improperly trained…