What’s Next for School Leadership? 4 Urgent Solutions to Sustain and Support Principals

In Part 3 of The Hidden Cost of School Leadership series, we finally ask: What’s next? With many principals now exiting the profession within 5–10 years—down from the 20–30 years of previous generations—the school leadership pipeline is collapsing under pressure. In this installment, the author outlines four essential strategies to support and retain school leaders. At the top of the list? Investing in leadership spaces that center the lived experiences of principals, particularly those who are often underrepresented. The Black Principal Network emerges as a powerful example—offering both a fellowship and a sustaining peer community. As education systems rebuild post-pandemic, we must shift from just naming the problem to actively nurturing leadership longevity. Because without strong leaders, schools—and students—will suffer.