This dissertation consists of three connected studies. Each study reviews the impact of policies for practice. The policies highlight shifts that aim to foster innovation in their field of implementation. The policies analyzed are ones recently adopted by California and present implications for fiscal accountability and programmatic changes. Focusing on these policies provides a relevant perspective on the changes that practitioners are facing, and the considerations for further research. The first study analyzes California's new funding system and the trends in spending in support of English Learners. The second study also analyzes California's funding system, but focuses on trending practices in technology. Finally, the third study reviews California's shift to an innovative performance assessment to provide administrative licensure. These studies explore the shifts of policies in California in the landscape of leadership. [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.]