Professional Development Needs of Secondary School Principals of Collaborative-Based Service Delivery Models

The purpose of this study was to examine secondary school principals' self-perceptions of their professional development needs to serve as school leaders of collaborative-based approaches to the delivery of educational services. Telephone interviews were conducted with 13 secondary school principals who volunteered to participate in this study. Approximately 40% of the principals indicated a need for additional training in methods for empowering and supporting teachers in collaborative activities. The principals also reported the need for professional development in areas of conflict resolution and development of school-community partnerships, particularly as partners in interagency systems of care. Implications for the professional development of school administrators are discussed.