The Evolving Role of American Principals: From Managerial to Instructional to Transformational Leaders

Abstract

Examines trends in the evolution of the principalship in the United States from the 1960s to the present. Analyses three roles that emerged during this period and that subsequently exerted influence on the principalship: the programme manager, instructional leader, and transformational leader. Assesses the evolution of these roles in administrative practice in the light of contextual changes, particularly developments in national and state education policy. Suggests possible directions for future developments in the educational leadership roles of principals in the United States.