In this mixed-methods multi-case study, the researcher's aim was to examine the confidence and competence of new assistant principals in public school districts in California. The scope of participants included superintendents, principals, and teacher leaders. A review of the literature revealed that although the role of the new assistant principal is essential to student success, very little is done to ensure their success in new leadership roles. New assistant principals are left to learn on the job, leading to burnout and attrition. The literature proves that this problem has been known in the education profession for decades and little has been done to remedy it. The researcher found that there are relevant recommendations for professional learning for new assistant principals, and the study aimed to see if new principals were undertaking it and what the results were. Quantitative data was gathered in which participants rated the importance of each of the California Professional Standards for Educational Leadership (CPSELs) and compared them to their daily tasks and workload. The survey sought to determine the relationship between what the CPSELs imply principals need to do versus the daily reality. Qualitative data was gathered through interviews with the participants. The key findings suggest there is still a gap between what the professional standards say assistant principals should do and what they are doing. The assistant principalship needs new and structured learning opportunities to support success, and principals in general aren't finding many professional learning opportunities relevant to what they actually do. The study determined that reform must happen in school leadership structures. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]