The purpose of this study was to develop greater depth of understanding regarding educational leadership development in the five north-western provinces (Shaanxi, Xinjiang, Gansu, Qinghai and Ningxia) of the People's Republic of China. The researchers used a mixed method approach of surveys and focus group interviews to gather data regarding the current state of educational leadership training in this under-developed region of China. Findings indicated that most of the educational leaders included in this study have limited teaching experience and relatively low levels of formal education and few, if any, opportunities for training and professional development. However, the participants expressed great desire for more training to become knowledgeable about and skilled in Western-oriented leadership approaches that could be used in conjunction with the Confucian-based approaches that have traditionally defined leadership in China. (Contains 3 tables.)