---

Principal leadership in special education is a critical piece in student and staff development. School principals are called to lead special education students and teachers on a daily basis. Feeling unprepared to serve in this capacity, many principals are at a loss as to how to work with their students and staff in this area. Taking a historical look at special education law, and the evolving need for principal involvement in special education, this study looks at past and present leadership theories. The author defines and honors the advocate principal for special education and identifies five core themes for successful principal leadership in the area of special education for the 21st century.

---

Kristin Krych received her doctorate in Educational Leadership from Hamline University in St. Paul, MN. She has worked as a special educator and consultant in the Apple Valley school district for 16 years. She enjoys consulting with special education teachers and their school wide teams. She resides in Lakeville, MN with her husband and children.

---