Alternative schools were characterized by numerous risk factors that impacted student learning, teacher retention, and access to essential resources. The implementation of self-efficacy was crucial in tackling and successfully finishing difficult tasks. Studies were scarce regarding the impact of school principals' self-efficacy on their leadership behaviors when running an alternative school. The purpose of this study was to investigate how principals perceived their self-efficacy, which was influenced by their participation in principal preparation programs in Georgia. Additionally, I examined the impact of self-efficacy on their leadership behaviors, the risk factors associated with leading an alternative school, and how principals conceptualized their leadership efficacy. The research questions highlighted that the data on leadership training programs mostly addressed collaboration, power sharing, connection development, communication, flexibility, and process orientation. Similar to principals of regular schools, principals of alternative school programs also benefitted from the unique support provided by universities, colleges, and school districts. It was crucial to have effective instructional involvement at all levels to develop a new curriculum specifically designed for alternative school principals. This curriculum should be characterized by increased communication between agencies, active engagement by cohorts nationwide, and the establishment of trust. Such measures were essential for increasing students' success in alternative schools. By persistently examining and implementing approaches to engage administrators in alternative school programs, we can enhance their ability to become accomplished alternative school principals with elevated self-efficacy. [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.]