The purpose of this study is to examine the effective leadership qualities and practices of principals from successful alternative school settings that are recognized as California Model Continuation High Schools (MCHS), based on Transformational Leadership Theory. The research questions that guided this study are the following: (1) Through the lens of Full Range Leadership Theory, what is most commonly identified as the predominant leadership style used by these MCHS principals, as identified by their teachers?; (2) What do MCHS principals believe are efficacious leadership traits essential to successfully lead their schools to achieve laudable outcomes?; (3) As compared to traditional continuation high schools, what practices do MCHS principals utilize to demonstrate these identified traits and lead their schools to success?; (4) How do Model Continuation High School (MCHS) principals measure effectiveness of their schools? This study was conducted using an Explanatory Sequential Mixed Methods design, that included a survey of MCHS teachers about their perceptions of their principals' leadership, using the MLQ-5X survey tool. The surveys were followed up with principal interviews and a document analysis of their MCHS applications. The study revealed that principals at each MCHS employ transformational leadership, and these specific leadership practices emerged as themes, acting with integrity, building trust, coaching and developing people, and encouraging innovative thinking. The research findings of this study have implications for policy in the areas of purpose and accountability. There are practical implications, additionally, in the areas of leadership development for future continuation high school principals. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]