This study used both quantitative and qualitative methods of content analysis to examine principal evaluation instruments and state and professional standards for principals in school districts located in a mid-Atlantic state in the USA. The purposes of this study were to (a) determine the degrees of emphasis that are placed upon leadership and management behaviours expected of school principals, (b) explore the congruence of principal evaluation instruments with instructional leadership and management attributes and (c) explore the congruence of principal evaluation instruments with state and professional standards. Findings revealed that a school district focus on instructional leadership, organisational management and community relations in principal evaluation instruments reflected common expectations of principals among school districts and state and professional standards. (Contains 3 tables and 2 notes.)