Leading school communities during the pandemic impacted elementary and middle school principals and brought about reflection of their leadership practices. School principals were forced to reassess leadership priorities like those set forth by the National Policy Board for Educational Administration (NPBEA) in 2015. This study looks at information gathered from K-8 school principals and literacy teachers from suburban schools in Illinois, to determine how school leaders have adapted their approach to leadership since the COVID-19 pandemic. Data provided through interview and questionnaires gives insight on how the pandemic impacted leadership and literacy instruction as wells as what challenges schools moving forward. It is important to understand the challenges facing K-8 school leaders as they adapt their literacy programs to allow for optimal student success. [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://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]