Ignorance is Not Bliss; it is the Fastest Way to Litigation: What Principals Need to Know about Special Education

This study investigated the foundational knowledge and skills new building leaders need to navigate special education aspects of their roles. A survey of 104 special education professionals in Minnesota ranked 18 topics related to special education on their importance for principal preparation programs. The top priorities were discipline issues involving students with disabilities, the principal's role in IEP meetings, integrating students with disabilities, and special education law.

The findings recommend enhancing principal preparation curricula with comprehensive training on IEP processes, discipline protocols, inclusion strategies, and continuous professional development on special education law. Practicum experiences requiring special education processes are advocated to be included in preparation programs