Principal succession has gained heightened importance globally due to shortages and frequent turnover of school leaders. We argue that unique leadership strategies are needed to ensure a smooth transition and school improvement. This study aimed to develop and validate a measure for principal leadership during this crucial time. Using a multi-step scale development process, the researchers first identified five potential dimensions of succession leadership through a literature review and interviews, then used exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses of samples of principals in China that led to a 14-item, four-factor model of succession leadership: institutionalization, restructuring, capacity building, and external relationships. The findings indicate that principal succession leadership is a distinct construct that targets more on institutional coherence and structural stability, which is very different from the realm of either instructional or transformational leadership. This study contributes to the limited research on principal succession by providing a robust, empirically validated measure. The scale can inform the design of principal preparation programs and professional development to equip leaders with the specialized competencies required for effective principal transitions and sustained school improvement across diverse contexts.
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