The chapters of the book vividly reflect the ideas and experiences regarding current issues and trends in school leadership and leadership development from both perspectives, research and practice. They comprise insights from recent research findings and their consequences for the leadership of schools. They look at the growing importance placed on activities to "professionalize" school leaders, among them: training and development programs and selection procedures. They also examine the professional standing and the level of decision-making authority that school leaders in various countries have.