Globalization and the influx of multinational corporations over the past 30 years have significantly impacted the educational system in Costa Rica. The need for knowledge-based workers has become essential in continuing to strengthen the economy and attracting foreign direct investment. The purpose of this qualitative study was to understand the effects of educational leadership on the participation in the National Program of Science and Technology Fairs (Programa Nacional de Ferias de Ciencia y Tecnologia [PRONAFECYT]) in primary schools in Costa Rica. The goal was to identify the role that educational leaders play in effectively implementing the PRONAFECYT initiative. The research team collected data through interviews, surveys, and observations from political, business, and educational leaders in Costa Rican schools during a 10-day visit in June 2015. The data were analyzed using John Creswell's six-step process. The findings revealed significant themes: The role of a strong leader and his or her capacity to build a positive culture with recognition will provide the necessary tools for successful implementation of the PRONAFECYT initiative. Teachers at successful schools integrate soft skills into their classroom instruction. They collaborate together; their students collaborate; and professional learning communities are part of the school's practices. System leaders (government and business) have a clear vision for the PRONAFECYT and the tools that schools should be receiving; however, the vision is not always executed. Strong leadership is connected to training and ongoing professional development at the site for the PRONAFECYT and in 21st-century skills. Participation in the PRONAFECYT has influenced the integration of the scientific method and PBL in classroom instruction. The findings and recommendations were shared with the Ministry of Public Education and the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Telecommunications in an effort to improve practices related to educational leaders' roles and preparation for the PRONAFECYT. [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.]