This Handbook is both an authoritative and comprehensive reference work for researchers, and a state-of-the-art compilation of new insights and guidance for practicing educational leaders. It provides essential information for those working in the fields of educational leadership and administration. Since the publication of the first International Handbook of Educational Leadership and Administration, in 1996, governments around the world have undertaken major activities in the realms of school leadership and school improvement. In addition, a growing body of research and writing has advanced the field in the past few years to such an extent that a second International Handbook was needed to capture new insights and developments. This second Handbook: + has a broadly international editorship; + brings together new material and fresh, global insights from 55 well-regarded scholars; + contains 34 chapters organized around six leadership themes; and + adds a great deal of new information to the first Handbook.