The school years touched by the pandemic tested the mettle of school leaders in unprecedented ways. While many had weathered crises of varying magnitudes before it, COVID-19 was the longest, most widespread test of school principals and administrators' skills in managing schools in crisis conditions. When supported in gaining decision-making skills that can be honed with time, experience, and training, principals can continue to serve their students and communities and be a model for the educators they lead. This policy update discusses research on effective leadership, state efforts, and recommendations.