In this phenomenological study, seven K-8 school principals who have made measurable advances in achievement gap scores were interviewed to understand the lived experiences that informed their successful leadership practices. Annually, the Ohio Department of Education (ODE) releases Ohio School Report Cards (n.d.), a statewide report that contains the student achievement scores of every public school in Ohio. Participants were selected for this study based on a comprehensive review of the annual report card data, which identified K-8 principals who have demonstrated improved Annual Measurable Objectives (AMO) and Gap Closing scores for four consecutive years. The research findings indicate that extensive organizational support, including the provision of coaching and mentorship, aided in preparing the K-8 principals for vast leadership responsibilities; however, the most significant finding concerns the participants' role in mitigating adversity and responding to internal and external barriers. Participants cited personal and professional experiences with adversity which influenced their intrinsic and extrinsic awareness of environmental challenges, closely aligning their leadership philosophies with tenets of steward leadership: ownership, motivation, and accountability. The findings of this study further indicate that responsive, proactive leadership practices also facilitated overcoming adversity and influencing positive achievement gap scores. The most prevalent leadership practices implemented by the interviewed principals align closely with tenets of servant leadership: commitment, empathy, and foresight. [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.]