This qualitative study investigated the impact of COVID-19 on leadership in public and private schools overseas. This research used a central phenomenon model to assess the pandemic's impact on school leadership. The research question and sub-research questions that guided this study were: (1) What were educational leaders' perceptions of the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on their school leadership at public and private overseas schools? (1a) What primary challenges and opportunities were experienced at the onset of the pandemic? The COVID-19 pandemic influenced (1b) What challenges and opportunities for professional development? (1c) What challenges and opportunities were associated with distance learning during the COVID-19 pandemic? This study collected data from email interviews comprised of 19 school leaders of K-12 students from public and private schools overseas to understand their experiences while leading during the pandemic. This study revealed behaviors school leaders endured through the ambiguity of teaching and learning, lack of preparation, and limited materials. Their voices told of the need for professional development embedded in professional learning communities. [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.]