The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about significant changes in the field of education, impacting various aspects of schooling like never before. This study aims to address the unprecedented effects of the pandemic by delving into the professional development needs of school leaders. Through a quantitative explorative approach, the study seeks to build, test, and enhance our understanding of how school leaders can effectively respond to the challenges posed by the pandemic. The specific focus of this research lies in the post-COVID-19 return phase. The findings of the study highlight the diverse training requirements of school leaders, categorized into four main domains: (1) Instructional Leadership, (2) Talent Management, (3) Organizational Systems, and (4) Culture and Climate. These domains represent crucial areas where school leaders need support and improvement to navigate the changes and uncertainties brought on by the pandemic. The ultimate goal of this article is to contribute significantly to the field of educational leadership. By identifying and addressing school leaders' high and low training needs, this research aims to provide schools with tailored and adaptable training opportunities. Such targeted strategies can be applied in any school setting, ensuring that leaders are well-prepared to tackle the unique challenges posed by COVID-19 and its aftermath. In conclusion, this article offers practical and actionable strategies for developing highly-trained school leaders capable of effectively leading educational institutions through the evolving landscape of COVID-19 and the post-COVID-19 era. The insights gained from this study are valuable resources for schools seeking to thrive amidst the changes and uncertainties caused by the pandemic.