Education Commons^™

An Analysis Of The Relationship Between K-12 Public Education Spending And Student Academic Achievement In Iowa, Lydia Berns-Schweingruber

INSPIRE Student Research and Engagement Conference

Student academic achievement in Iowa is on the decline (US Department of Education 2022). Some politicians propose increasing public education spending in order to address worrisome trends in academic achievement (Richardson 2022). Prior studies disagree about whether there is a relationship between school spending and student outcomes. The purpose of this study is to determine if there is a relationship between K-12 public education spending and student academic achievement in Iowa. This project analyzes data from the past nineteen years to examine the relationship between Iowa’s per- pupil expenditure and student outcomes — specifically, graduation rate, average daily attendance, math …

Why Do Effective Science Teachers Persist?: A Mixed Methods Approach Exploring Post-Induction Effective Science Teachers' Experiences, Molly Ella Ramker, William Raymond Lange, Jesse Wilcox Ph.D., Dori Clausen

Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURP) Symposium

Secondary science teachers have been leaving the field at an increasing rate in recent years. While much is known about science teacher attrition, less is known about science teacher persistence. The purpose of this study was to identify effective post-induction science teachers and analyze why they persist. This study was conducted using a mixed-methods approach including the Local Systemic Change Classroom Observation Protocol (LSC-COP) to generate a quantitative measure of science teaching effectiveness, along with using a phenomenological approach to investigate the experiences of effective science teachers who have stayed in the field.The median and mode of the LSC-COP capsule …

Leading Early Childhood Education In Iowa Schools, Alaina T. Daters

Dissertations and Theses @ UNI

Over the last 15 years, Iowa’s Statewide Voluntary Preschool Programs (SWVPP) have undergone significant growth. By the end of the 2021-2022 school year, 323 out of 327 (99%) of Iowa public school districts offered preschool (Iowa Department of Education, 2022c). As a result, well over 450 Iowa administrators are potentially responsible for leading their district’s preschool program.

The purpose of this mixed methods research study was to gain an understanding of the experiences, knowledge, and pedagogical needs of licensed Iowa administrators that are responsible for their district’s SWVPP. Data was collected through a survey and analyzed using descriptive statistical analysis …

The Role Of The School Principal In Technology Integration : A Literature Review, Lance Lennon

Graduate Research Papers

The effective integration of technology into a school's curriculum is strongly influenced by the role played by a school principal. This literature review aims to examine a principal as a school leader, a principal as a technology leader, and specifically what a principal needs to be an effective leader of technology integration. This paper reviews peer-reviewed journal articles, research studies, and doctoral theses focused on the role of a principal in technology integration. Research indicates principals and other school leaders are crucial to the success of school initiatives, and that administrators need more training opportunities to have the positive impact …

A Case Study Of One Iowa Female Elementary School Principal's Journey Into Administration, Angela J. Fowler

Dissertations and Theses @ UNI

The representation of women in educational administration fluctuated throughout history from the 1900s to present day. Presently, women represent over 53% of all elementary school principals in Iowa; but documentation of their specific stories and perspectives is infrequent. I conducted this research with the intent to build upon the qualitative research studies previously completed on educational leadership; specifically lo include an ethnographic account of one female's story in an urban school district.

Through a series of in-depth interviews and participant observations, I gained the perspective of one female elementary school principal in Iowa's experiences into and through the principalship. In …

A Comparison Of Bullying In Public And Private Schools In A Small Midwestern Community, Daniel J. Ryan

Dissertations and Theses @ UNI

Little attention has been given to the possible differences in bullying at private and public schools. Little significant research exists on bullying at private schools, its characteristics, and its differences from public schools. Inattention to this segment of the population can lead to broad and inappropriate generalizations that what works in public schools will work in private schools. This dissertation investigated to what degree there were differences between the number of incidences, types of bullying, and locations of bullying that took place at a public and private school in a small Midwestern community. The research examined the following factors and …

Baby Boomer And Genx Elementary Principals : Differing Perspectives On Schooling, Lisa M. Fry

Dissertations and Theses @ UNI

Studies on generational analysis inform us that each generation is shaped by the influences they share during their formative years. The common experiences and historical circumstances experienced during this time influences their generational identity and results in a world view that is unique to that generation. This world view and generational identity impacts their belief system and practices as they emerge as leaders in mid-life.

While the current structures and policies that guide today's educational system were established by the Baby Boomer generation, we could see significant changes as the Baby Boomer behemoth begins to leave the workforce. Around the …

How Do Beginning Administrators Navigate Through Their First Year Of The Middle School Principalship?, James D. Cryer

Dissertations and Theses @ UNI

In an effort to understand the positive and negative experiences that principals encounter as they navigate through their first year of administrative duties at the middle school level, this research study examined what events happened during their first year that encouraged the individual to stay in the position or discouraged the individual to leave the position. This study focused on problems and difficulties that arose, specifically associated with the middle school setting. To accomplish this study, three first year middle school principals were interviewed multiple times throughout the year. By collaboratively working with these participants in a phenomenological study, the …

Administrative Mentoring: An Investigation Of Practicing Principals' Perceptions Of The Role Mentors Played In Their Professional Development And Job Satisfaction, Lisa M. Remy

Dissertations and Theses @ UNI

Researchers have alluded to the power of mentorship to connect the new administrator to the organization. Following the lead of business, the field of education is now recognizing mentoring as a critical component of effective leadership development. Daresh (2001) suggests there is a need for a more practical and effective approach to prepare the leaders of our schools. New administrators have little choice but to experience on-the-job training, without any formal support in place. Administrative mentoring programs are growing in attention due to the projected principal shortages, concerns about qualified candidates, and the changing role of the building level principal. …

Educational Leadership : A Reflective Essay, Craig D. Murray

Graduate Research Papers

The role of a leader is invaluable in setting the tone of the environment and the vision for the school. There are so many parts to leadership, that continual learning will be necessary for any successful school leader. A school leader plays many roles including: a reflective practitioner, a change agent, an educational improvement specialist, and a servant leader who remembers the people who make the system work.

A Preferred Vision Of Educational Leadership In Schools : A Reflective Essay, Melinda A. Orris

Graduate Research Papers

The state of Iowa has laid the framework for leadership in education through the development of the six Iowa Standards for School Leaders (ISSL). Each one of the six standards details a different aspect of the role needed for successful leadership within the school and the school community. Through these six standards and outside resources, I have found that there are core beliefs and characteristics required to have and maintain success in leadership in education. This paper will cover the essential beliefs and characteristics in educational leadership needed, and their importance for success within the school.

Leadership And Education : A Reflective Essay, Erik J. Smith

Graduate Research Papers

My principle belief about education relates to the importance of students. Without the students, what we as educators are doing would not mean anything. As educators, we must do everything that we can to ensure that we keep our students engaged and learning. I believe that educators often lose sight of what is important and instead get caught up in trivial happenings (e.g., whether we should have the school buses pick the students up on the north or the east side of the school). If educators continue to stay focused on the students and do what is best for them, …

What I Believe About Leadership And Education : A Reflective Essay, Stephanie Renee Dougherty

Graduate Research Papers

A principal leads educational change. Schools are called to continually change to fit society's demands. Schools that remain stagnant are places where students are not being served in their best interests. Schools need to upgrade in order for students to be ready for the workforce. Principals need to continually scan for ways to encourage growth, improvement, and empowerment.

What I Believe About Leadership And Education : A Reflective Essay, Christine A. Mangrich

Graduate Research Papers

Educators are more than just teachers. Effective teachers are more than simply instructors, and instructional leaders are more than just administrators. Servant leadership is more than a method of managing a school or an office. It is something that encompasses the essence of a person. A servant leader is one whose foundational beliefs begin with the notion to serve first. This leadership persona is not something that one turns on while at work; it is generally part of the guiding principles a person has, and affects all aspects of a person's life.

A leader of service encompasses all facets of …

My Philosophy Of Educational Leadership, David A. Clark

Graduate Research Papers

Early leaders in civilization knew that to keep a country free of tyranny and social depredation it was imperative that the citizens within that culture became educated. Modem leaders of education can be found at the forefront of public education in the form of superintendents and principals. In this paper I will define the role of leadership in education, how it has affected my life, what makes a great principal, the principals role in educational change, a reflective practitioner as a leader, and how a principal can use professional development to enhance the effectiveness of his/her staff.

A Vision For Leading Schools : A Reflective Essay, Melissa A. Margretz

Graduate Research Papers

The role of a leader is comparable to a circle. There are so many sides, they seem to run together with no definition of where one ends and another begins. What I believe about leadership and the roles of being a reflective practitioner, a leader in educational change, a leader in improvement of learning for students and adults, and a leader of service all share importance in a well-rounded, successful, educational leader.

In order to lead a school with success the leader must be able to play many roles at the same time. Not only do leaders need to be …

My Philosophy Of Educational Leadership, Jody L. Fink

Graduate Research Papers

What is the true role of the principal? The principal has to be a reflective leader of learning, a leader of educational change, a leader for the improvement of learning for both students and adults, and the leader of service. The principal is the main educational leader of the learning community. As Wilmore (2002) states, "The primary emphasis has shifted from one in which the principal truly was a master teacher, a recognized leader in instruction, to one in which the principal is a manager of the school facility." Wilmore continues, "The role of the principal has transitioned again, from …

What I Believe About Leadership And Education : A Reflective Essay, Deanna Martens

Graduate Research Papers

As a leader of change, an administrator looks to the future, plans appropriately, sustains flexibility and continues the cycle of consist reflection and evaluation of the change process and actual change. A successful administrator understands that change is not easy for everyone and assists stakeholders throughout the process. Administrators are responsible for a supportive learning environment. The most critical element for the principal in setting the tone is to be a positive role model. The school, faculty and staff often take on the qualities of the administrator. When taking action of large proportions, a successful administrator communicates clearly and involves …

My Philosophy Of Educational Leadership : A Reflective Essay, Lincoln James Rasche

Graduate Research Papers

As more and more demands are placed on schools, principals must be strong instructional leaders who find innovative ways to provide professional development for teachers. As leaders of schools, principals must meet the challenges of educating today's students. When professional development is of high quality, it can provide principals and teachers with the knowledge and skills needed to meet these challenges. By meeting these challenges, schools will strive to provide students with effective learning opportunities, opportunities that ensure high levels of learning for everyone (Sparks, 1997).

Research And Reflection On Successful Principal Leadership : A Reflective Essay, Leah M. Rogers

Graduate Research Papers

A teacher needs to act as a leader, allow the child's natural curiosity to direct his/her learning, and promote respect for all things and people. The teacher's role is to guide, providing access to information rather than acting as the primary source of information. The students' search for knowledge is the journey one takes as they learn to find answers to their questions. Providing students with access to hands-on activities and allowing adequate time and space to use materials that reinforce the lesson being studied creates an opportunity for individual innovation.

Reflecting For Action, Christopher J. Mccarville

Graduate Research Papers

To answer the question, "What do I believe about leadership and education?" I have to say that I believe in four main things: Hard work, passion, family and most importantly, faith. If you follow through with these four beliefs, everything else will fall into place. Work hard, have passion for the school, love your family above all, and pray. These are the keys to being successful as an administrator.

A Voice For Our Children : What I Believe About Leadership And Education, Angela J. Noel

Graduate Research Papers

Leadership in education will be a challenging job. The leader of a school must maintain a level of self-awareness in order to run an effective building. This level of awareness must continuously reflect upon, "Have I raised student achievement?" and "Have I created a successful educational experience for my students?" Educational leaders also need to create culture, manage the daily operations of the school, collaborate with families and community members, act with integrity and fairness, and be knowledgeable of political, social, economic, legal, and cultural context.

A Preferred Vision For Leading High Schools : A Reflective Essay, Troy M. Osterhaus

Graduate Research Papers

In order to maintain our great educational system in America, it takes great school leaders. The school principal plays the most important role in the success of a school. A school leader is responsible for the management of the organization, operations, and resources. A school principal has now taken on a new role with the increased focus on accountability and student success. The principal is responsible for monitoring the improvement and success of all students. The school leader is the voice of the school and it's important to be visible around the community at businesses, churches, clubs, and organizations.

What I Believe About Leadership And Education : A Reflective Essay, Jerry L. Nelson

Graduate Research Papers

Educational leadership means doing the right thing for the people we serve. It means being committed to the education of all the students. An educational leader needs to be a committed soul, passionate about creating success in the lives of every student. This is not an 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. or August to May commitment, it is 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year position.

As an educator, this should be a career-long commitment. To help stay committed,an educational leader needs to develop core values that help one stay focused on the task …

A Reflective Practitioner As A Leader Of Learning, Change And Service : A Reflective Essay, Leshane O. Saddler

Graduate Research Papers

Learning must be modeled by all leaders. Learning may not be enough; there must be a love for learning that is modeled to all. As a parent of two elementary students my passion for knowledge is demonstrated on a daily basis. Reading nightly for one to two hours and spending Saturdays at the public library instead of the ball park are two examples that I model for my children. As a leader of learning, the building principal or district administrator, there should be a greater understanding that the teachers that are under your administration; view you as that parent. Leaders …

What I Believe About Leadership And Education : A Reflective Essay, Julie A. Bride

Graduate Research Papers

Exemplary educational leadership requires mastery of many essential skills. In order for a principal to be an effective instructional leader, one must support the success of all students by nurturing an environment based upon the school's developed vision. An instructional leader believes in, values, and is committed to the fact that all students have the knowledge, skills, and values needed to become successful adults. Each student is an individual with unique needs. An educational leader must be a proactive advocate for the needs of all children.

A Commitment To Excellence In Educational Leadership: A Reflective Essay, Michelle A. Hunt

Graduate Research Papers

The role of a principal is an overwhelming one – many faceted, imbued with great responsibility and strict accountability. I know the perfect principal does not exist. The "perfect" robotic leader would have little, if any, positive impact on her learning community. There are, however, some very human characteristics that, if practiced, would positively contribute to the community's educational success.

These practices and values are set forth in this reflective essay. I am confident that those who share my vision – that every human being matters and makes a contribution to the entire learning community – will experience the joy …

What I Believe About Leadership And Education : A Reflective Essay, Thomas Keegan Knight

Graduate Research Papers

The leadership quality is more of an art than a statement. A leader is a server and a debtor, whose first responsibility is to define reality and last responsibility is to say thank you (DePree, 1989). This paper will communicate my educational beliefs, the role of reflective practice in an educational setting, steps to follow in the change process and models, current research for improved learning in the classroom, as well as the importance of being a leader of service in a community. All of these elements are related to the Iowa Standards for School Leaders (ISSL) and are pertinent …

What I Believe About Leadership And Education, Todd M. Kress

Graduate Research Papers

Whether you are a leader reflecting on past experiences, a leader whom is adjusting to changes and motivating others to adjust to changes, a leader who is challenging him or herself and all others to continue education, or a leader who is serving every stakeholder involved in the school, you need to make sure that students are not missing out on the greatest educational experience they can possibly get. The students are the number one reason why anyone goes into education, and no matter what happens in our busy lives we need to remember that. Every student needs to be …

A Preferred Vision For Administering Elementary Schools : A Reflective Essay, Leona M. Mccall

Graduate Research Papers

In this paper I will discuss my educational beliefs, and how the current literature supports my vision for the future of education. Through my discourse I plan to affirm my mission for student achievement. As I proceed, it is my intent to convey what I believe to be essential for me as a leader of learning for the campus community. I will also express my views of the principal as change agent, along with my beliefs about service learning. As I culminate my educational beliefs, I will focus on how the Iowa Standards for School Leaders (ISSL) apply to the …