School leaders need to understand how to implement change through leadership as shifts in grading reform support student learning. The problem was educational leaders and school districts face many challenges transitioning from traditional report cards and grading systems to standards-based grading and reporting at the middle school level. A gap in the literature exists regarding effective strategies and frameworks school leaders can use to address the challenges of transition to standards-based grading in middle schools. The purpose of this basic qualitative study was to explore what leadership needs, and actions can be taken to support transitioning from traditional report cards and grading systems to standards-based grading in the middle school setting. Theoretical frameworks used include Hersey-Blanchard's situational leadership theory and Kotter's model for change. Purposive sampling was used with an estimated sample size of 20 middle school leaders. Educational leaders were interviewed and asked questions about the school's transition to standards-based grading, implementation practices, stakeholder communication, and overall leadership effectiveness. Research questions addressed how administrators support teachers in implementing standards-based grading and the type of support provided through the transition process. Data were collected and analyzed using Otter.ai for transcription and Delve for thematic patterns. The implications of this study suggest building capacity with all stakeholders, especially teachers and parents, is vital. A collective understanding founded on deep and targeted professional development is a key foundation for successful implementation. While this process looks different at each school, a clear vision, collaborative planning, abundant communication, and continued professional learning support the transition from traditional to standards-based grading. [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.]