This research summary examines the results of three initiatives that changed leadership training for principalship. They are: (1) the School Leadership Initiative program, a three-year pilot mentor program designed for the assistant principal; (2) the Richardson Mentor Principal program, a program designed for seasoned administrators recognized for their achievements; and (3) the Aspiring Principals program, a program that emanated from the earlier two and focused on recruiting and training potential teacher leaders for assistant principal positions in rural communities. All three initiatives focused on the skills school administrators need to be successful and emphasized mentoring leadership and leadership practice. This paper summarizes the lessons learned from the three initiatives, which include: Exemplary principals views themselves as instructional leaders and facilitators; they base their decision-making on the vision and goals of the learning community; and they participate in shared decision-making and on-going professional renewal. Additionally, participants in the three initiatives reported that for the future success of the profession, preparation for school leadership must include systematic professional renewal, mentoring, and peer support throughout the career of the principal. (Contains 19 references.) (WFA)