This research report from WestEd shares findings from a study that explored the institutional changes in California’s leader preparation. Analyzing data from the 2012–13 to 2023–24 school years, the study examined trends of new and existing administrator credentialing pathways. The findings show principal preparation primarily takes place through emergency waivers and the California Preliminary Administrative Credential Examination (CPACE). Major trends include (1) local providers serving as predominant credentialing institutions, (2) a growing number of alternative pathways, and (3) declines in university-based program enrollment. The report outlines how such pathways have expanded access for aspiring administrators, especially in rural or underserved areas. However, it also argues that these pathways often bypass coursework and fieldwork, creating tensions between the urgency to fill staff vacancies and California’s commitment to high-quality leader preparation. This resource may help educator preparation programs, policymakers, and district leaders consider the implications of expanding alternative credentialing pathways while maintaining high-quality preparation experiences for future school leaders.