Educational Administration and Supervision Commons^™

Do You Feel The Power? Affinity Spaces For Black Male Principals, Wallace Cobbs

All Dissertations

This qualitative study explores the experiences of Black male principals by examining how affinity spaces provide essential support in facing the challenges of school leadership. Using semi-structured interviews and a focus group, the research investigates how these spaces influence principals’ self-efficacy as they manage racial microaggressions, systemic barriers, and professional isolation. The findings show that affinity spaces help build confidence, encourage professional growth, and support personal well-being. By connecting self-efficacy theory to the real-life experiences of Black male principals, this study adds to the conversation on equity in education and the need for meaningful, culturally-relevant support systems.

Virtual Coaching: Ushering In A New Era In School Improvement, Tygere Alisha West Charles

All Dissertations

This research study examined virtual coaching as a vehicle for principal professional development. The study focused on coaching a principal in a rural, low-performing, high-poverty South Carolina school district to improve support for teachers and students. This study explored virtual coaching and is rooted in improvement science as measured by plan-do-study-act (PDSA) cycles (Bryk et al., 2017). It explored how virtual coaching supported a rural principal’s professional development needs.

Principals must be transformational leaders who balance their support needs and accountability while meeting the needs of the diverse stakeholders they serve. Ongoing professional development is an essential component in helping …

Leading With All The Feels: Exploring The Perceptions Of Middle School Administrators' Implementation Of School-Wide Social-Emotional Learning Programming, Sabrina Smith Richardson

Teaching & Learning Theses & Dissertations

Middle school administrators have multiple responsibilities that range from ensuring the safety and security of staff and students to overseeing the curriculum and instructional foci of their buildings. At the same time, middle school students are experiencing the early stages of adolescence. Because it is a complex time for students to navigate, it creates anxiety, a decline in academic achievement and motivation, and peer and academic pressures (London, 2022; Schlund, 2021). Middle school students have social-emotional needs that are not typically met in secondary schools, which means programming is not typically a part of the instructional day. This study examined …

A Reformation Of The Status Quo: An Examination Of The Relationship Between Organizational Structure And Social Justice Reform In American Public Schools, Jaielle Manning

Educational Leadership & Workforce Development Theses & Dissertations

This study explores the correlation between organizational structure and social justice reform in American public schools. The study specifically aims to answer the following research questions: What are the lived experiences of school leaders as they navigate and enact social justice reform? How do school leaders experience the ways organizational structures shape their opportunities and challenges in implementing social justice reform? How do school leaders experience and make sense of the influence of local, state, and national policy on their efforts toward social justice reform in American public schools? The literature review examined organizational structure through the lens of Ecological …

Research To Practice Gap: Impact Of Principal Perceptions & Communication On Change Initiatives, Jennifer Sagendorf

Educational Leadership & Workforce Development Theses & Dissertations

The purpose of this study is to examine the experiences, perceptions, and practices of school principals related to evidence-based change initiatives and the continued divide between the findings of educational researchers and the use of these findings by school practitioners. Since the prevalent dichotomy of theory and practice is detrimental to school improvement efforts, it is important to examine the underlying values and beliefs that contribute to perpetuating this divide. For this qualitative phenomenological study, semi-structured interviews with seven elementary school principals provided first-hand accounts of the principals' lived experiences. Through an iterative process of coding, clustering, and cross-case analysis, …

Predictive Factors Of Academic Success During Transition To Undergraduate Studies In Stem Programs In Kansas, Elizabeth L. Butler

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

In tThis dissertation the researcher exploreds the correlations between high school GPA, ACT Math, ACT cComposite scores, and first -semester GPA for first-time freshmen at a mid-sized university in the Midwest. This quantitative correlational study uses multiple regression analysis to discover correlations that may exist between these interval variables. Data for this study was collected through a request to the study site’s oOffice of pPlanning and aAnalysiss at the university and was all archival data at a record level for the students. Data had been collected through the admissions process and was stored in Banner and SLATE, both data management …

A Qualitative Descriptive Study On The Importance Of Principal Leadership On Title I Middle School Teachers’ Decisions To Remain Teaching In The School, Lebrandan Keshaun Jenkins

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

This qualitative descriptive study examined the perspectives of novice middle school teachers with 0–5 years of experience who taught core academic subjects in Texas Title I school districts. I sought to understand how principal leadership or the building administrator to whom these teachers report influenced their decisions to remain in the teaching profession. Grounded in Herzberg’s motivation-hygiene theory, I described how leadership functions as both a motivator and a hygiene factor in shaping job satisfaction and retention. Data collection involved semistructured interviews and an optional Likert scale survey to capture both narrative insights and measurable perceptions. The findings illuminated the …

Building Micro-Credential Frameworks: A Strategic Approach For Institutional Success, Justin R. Louder

TxDLA Journal of Digital Learning

The rise of micro-credentials in higher education presents a transformative opportunity for institutions to deliver flexible, workforce-aligned learning experiences. This article explores key strategies for implementing micro-credential frameworks that align with institutional goals while ensuring quality, scalability, and employer recognition. Drawing from existing models and institutional case studies, the article outlines five critical factors for success: (1) aligning micro-credentials with institutional priorities, (2) conducting market and audience analysis, (3) ensuring academic quality and rigor, (4) leveraging technological infrastructure, and (5) fostering external partnerships. The discussion highlights best practices from leading institutions and offers actionable recommendations for practitioners looking to launch …

More Than A Monolith: Parental College Aspirations, Adolescents’ College Expectations, And Postsecondary Enrollment Among Asian Adolescent Immigrants, Rian R. Djita

Education Reform Faculty and Graduate Students Publications

Studies that are centered around social mobility and educational attainment have shown that educational aspirations and expectations play a critical role in an individual's future success. However, there are only a few analyses that focused on ethnic minorities or immigrants, particularly among Asian populations. These few studies about Asian American families tend to "lump" Asian immigrants as a monolithic ethnic group. This study seeks to bridge this gap by understanding different educational aspirations among immigrant parents from various Asian subgroups concerning their children's postsecondary enrollment in the U.S. Utilizing the High School Longitudinal Study of 2009 (HSLS:09), a nationally representative …

Exploring Generation Z Student Satisfaction In Radiography Programs Within A Southern State: Development And Application Of A Survey Instrument For Leadership Use, Brittany Seruntine Smith

Doctoral Dissertations

This dissertation employed a sequential exploratory mixed-methods design to examine the extent to which Generation Z students in radiography programs within a southern state perceive that their needs and expectations are being fulfilled. Additionally, the study examined how program leaders perceived and plan to utilize the survey and its findings within the cycle of continuous program improvement and accreditation readiness. A Likert-scale survey instrument was constructed by cross-referencing Generation Z’s characteristics, needs, and expectations with JRCERT standards. Items were refined through target population focus groups and validated using Lawshe’s Content Validity Ratio. The validated instrument was then administered to Generation …

For The Good Times: The Influence Of Leaders' Regret On Risk-Taking Behavior In Decision-Making, Ashley Elizabeth Owen

Doctoral Dissertations

Regret is a powerful and often underexplored emotion that significantly shapes leadership decision-making, particularly in high-stakes environments where the consequences of choices have lasting impacts on individuals, organizations, and communities. The researcher utilized qualitative research to explore how various forms of regret, including anticipatory regret, self-blame regret, and existential regret, influence risk-taking behavior and decision-making processes among higher education leaders within the University of Louisiana System. Drawing upon behavioral decision theory, regret theory, prospect theory, and emotional intelligence frameworks, the study aimed to understand how leaders experience, process, and respond to the emotional dynamics of regret within complex organizational settings. …

Tensions And Transformations: Equity, Diversity, And Inclusion In A Diverse Urban School Division, Lesley Eblie Trudel, Kishi Anderson Leachman, Wayne Davies

Journal of Educational Research and Practice

This study examines how equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) are understood and implemented within a large, diverse, urban school division in Canada. Using a mixed-methods approach and grounded in theoretical perspectives, including critical race theory, intersectionality, the ecology of inclusive education, and collective efficacy theory, we gathered insights from surveys and focus groups with educators, administrators, clinicians, educational assistants, caregivers, and students. Findings suggest that, while support for EDI is broad, the implementation is inconsistent and shaped by systemic barriers, resource constraints, and unclear leadership. We highlight the need for shared language, coordinated supports, and ongoing professional learning and instructional …

Investigating The Relationship Between Noun Classes And Plant Folk Taxonomy In Chasu Language Of Kilimanjaro Region In Tanzania, Peter Rabson Mziray

Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences

The current study investigates the relationship between noun classes and plant folk taxonomy in Chasu (G 22). The study focuses on two objectives: the first objective is to describe the plant folk taxonomy in Chasu and the second objective is to determine the relationship between noun classes and plant folk taxonomy in Chasu. Data were collected from rural villages in Same and Mwanga districts by using free listing, field interviews (jungle-walk-and-identify), and written texts containing Chasu plant names. The findings reveal that Chasu folk taxonomy reflects different ethnobotanical categories; including a unique beginner which is mmea/mimea ‘plant(s)’, and three life …

Community Engagement And Advocacy In Distributed Leadership: Pathways To Social Justice Leadership Praxis In South U.S. Schools, Atefeh Ataran, Jacquelyn Williams, Brandi Hinnant-Crawford

Publications

This study explores the relationship between distributed leadership and social justice leadership behaviors among K–12 school leaders in the South U.S. Survey responses from 179 principals and assistant principals showed a significant positive correlation. Leaders who engage in distributed leadership, particularly through community engagement and advocacy, tend to demonstrate social justice leadership practices. The findings emphasize the importance of collaborative leadership in creating inclusive schools and preparing future leaders to use distributed leadership strategies.

Faculty Touchpoint Survey 2025: Key Findings And Recommendations, Lisa A. Marchiondo, Naila V. Decruz-Dixon, Julia Fulghum

ADVANCE Reports

A Spring 2025 climate survey finds that UNM faculty remain committed to their teaching, scholarship, and collegial relationships, despite concerns about research funding, academic freedom, and graduate student recruitment and well-being. The survey also found that faculty have higher levels of stress than in a previous ADVANCE survey, worse psychological well-being, more difficulty concentrating, and more concern about tenure and promotion. A set of recommendations for academic leaders are provided.

Exploring An Asset-Based Framework For The Ethics Of Care In Rural Communities, Phillip D. Grant, J. Kessa Roberts, Jamon H. Flowers

The Rural Educator

This article introduces asset-based innovation in rural education (ABIRE) as a framework for rethinking school improvement in rural communities and integrates the ethics of care as a conceptual lens to view improvement efforts. Rather than focusing on external problems or shortcomings, ABIRE centers the strengths, relationships, and resources already present in rural contexts. The framework offers a relational and locally responsive approach to educational change by drawing on principles from the ethics of care, improvement science, and asset-based community development. Through asset mapping, educators and leaders can engage in cycles of inquiry that are grounded in place and driven by …

Breaking Barriers: Mentorship Pathways For Hispanic Women In Leadership Roles, Ana Paola Gonzalez

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

This study aimed to understand the unique lived experiences of 10 Hispanic Latinas serving in leadership roles in 2-year community colleges in Texas. As the graduation rate of Hispanic women increases, institutions must identify mentorship programs that motivate women who continue to graduate to seek leadership positions within their institutions. Through life stories and lived experiences, the study's findings illustrate that mentorship is essential to creating, but that self-determination and self-advocacy also make it possible to find paths to leadership. Through thematic analysis, three themes emerged from the data: identity and representation, mentorship and support structures, and resilience and advocacy. …

Equity In Action: Transformative Leadership And Anti-Racist Praxis In Canadian K-12 Schools, Ayodeji Osiname

Journal of Educational Leadership in Action

This paper examines how Canadian K-12 schools, amidst growing diversity, have historically marginalized certain student groups, perpetuating inequities. It explores the roles of school principals in reversing these trends and creating inclusive, equitable, and safe environments for all. The paper uses two theoretical frameworks—Transformative Leadership theory and Anti-Racist theory—to guide principals in fostering inclusive school cultures. The synergies and distinctions between these frameworks are analyzed to advocate for an integrated approach. Together, these frameworks provide a comprehensive lens for school leadership. School leaders must engage in self-reflection, collaboration, and resilience to cultivate social justice-oriented school cultures. The integration of Transformative …

Mental Health Awareness For Teachers: A Review Of The Literature, Jerry Burkett

Journal of Educational Leadership in Action

Mental health is a state of wellbeing in which an individual realizes their abilities and can cope with the normal stresses of life (Bohare & Tiwari, 2020). These individuals are productive in their work, life, and communities. These people can manage their mental health challenges which can range from high to low (MHFA, 2020). Research is showing a growing need for expanding mental health support in K-12 schools. Schools are in a unique position to address today’s mental health crisis among members of the education community. (Mcluckie et al., 2014; National Association of School Psychologists, 2015; Ormiston et al., 2021). …

The Emotional Labor Of Care: Sustainability And Strain In Leading With Unconditional Positive Regard, Emily R. Mulvihill

Journal of Educational Leadership in Action

Unconditional Positive Regard (UPR) is the capacity to honor the inherent worth of all persons, a practice increasingly applied to school leadership. While UPR fosters trust and dignity-based relationships, its sustained use within chronically under-resourced schools exacts a significant emotional toll. This study builds on prior research with Colorado school leaders who framed UPR as a “compass for relationships.” Using narrative inquiry with five leaders from the original cohort, this follow-up examined the emotional and psychological costs of leading with UPR. Findings revealed four themes: the weight of holding space, tensions between values and mandates, resilience through reflection, and boundary-setting …

Curriculum Beyond Constraint: Stakeholder Perspectives On Innovation And Autonomy In A Free School, Lucy A. Barker, David Littlefair, Christopher Million

Journal of Educational Leadership in Action

Free schools in the UK, like international ones, were established to promote autonomy, innovation, and diversity in education. This case study explores how one such school in the South of England, leveraged these freedoms to co-construct a distinctive and socially just curriculum. Data collected through semi-structured interviews and focus groups with school leaders, teachers, trustees, and parents was analysed thematically and revealed how leadership, curriculum design, and the hidden curriculum intersect to support holistic development, equity, and community cohesion. Particular attention is paid to how extended opportunities in the arts, sport, and enrichment activities contribute to cultural capital and wellbeing. …

Artificial Intelligence (Ai) Additions To Nursing Education: Accommodating The Complexity Of Today’S Populations And Assuring Evidence-Based Pathways Of Patient-Centered Care, Jamie Anne Marcus, Bonnette Villalba Webb, Abigail Pauline Batin Villarroya

FDLA Journal

Predicted demographic changes in the rising older than 65 populations with possible declining mental and physical health mandate adaptations to new professional nursing roles that will incorporate technology, and changing policy environments. Nursing experience, knowledge, and skills will transition to new cognitive pathways to think and process information. Nurses will be supported by artificial intelligence (AI) technologies and become information integrators, health coaches, and continue to be deliverers of human caring. New transition pathways in nursing education to meet the needs of these diverse populations, and patient complex presentations will transcend to synergizing and optimize digital-age healthcare environments and assure …

An Exploration Of Massachusetts Public Middle School Teachers’ Perceptions Of School-Based Professional Development For Implementing Response To Intervention, Kristina M. Hollender

Doctor of Education Program Dissertations

The purpose of this qualitative phenomenological study was to explore Massachusetts public middle school teachers’ perceptions of school-based professional development (PD) for implementing Response to Intervention (RtI). This study examined how teachers experienced PD in relation to RtI implementation, including its relevance, structure, and ongoing support. The research was grounded in Knowles’ (1984) adult learning theory, which emphasizes the importance of learner-centered, problem-based, and immediately applicable professional learning for adults. A review of the literature revealed ongoing challenges in the effectiveness of PD to support RtI practices at the middle school level, particularly in areas such as sustained support, teacher …

From Mirrors To Maps: Reimagining Supervision Through Coaching, Reflection And Metaphor, Meg Norris, Sungeun Min, Andrew S. Miness, Tracy Driehaus

Education Faculty Research

No abstract provided.

9th Gsep Research Symposium - 2025

GSEP Research Symposium

The Ninth Annual GSEP Research Symposium, themed "Building Bridges to Elevate Humanity: Innovations and Insights in Education and Psychology", was hosted by the Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology (GSEP) on June 19–20, 2025, at the historic Château d’Hauteville in Switzerland and virtually via Zoom.

This hybrid symposium convened a vibrant global community of students, alumni, faculty, and scholars to share research that addresses real-world challenges, advances scholarly inquiry, and builds pathways for inclusive collaboration and leadership. Spanning a wide array of topics—from artificial intelligence and mental health to trauma-informed practices, educational equity, social justice, and cross-cultural leadership—the …

Bridging Heritage And Innovation: The Marshall University Wv–Ireland Transatlantic Partnership, Brian Hoey

Publications of the Honors College at Marshall University

This presentation was delivered by Brian A. Hoey, Ph.D., Dean of the Honors College at Marshall University, to the West Virginia House and Senate Joint Committee on Education on October 5, 2025. The presentation outlines the development of the Marshall University WV–Ireland Transatlantic Partnership, an initiative connecting West Virginia institutions with partners in Ireland through student mobility, faculty collaboration, and interdisciplinary academic programming.

The partnership originated through collaboration between Marshall University and Dundalk Institute of Technology and includes a consortium model with BridgeValley Community and Technical College designed to expand access to international learning opportunities for students who …

Reimagining Civic Education In The United States: Integrating Research, Policy, And Practice For Democratic Renewal, Delante Clark

Graduate Scholarship and Creative Works

Civic education in the United States faces persistent challenges, including inequitable access, curricular fragmentation, and reluctance to address controversial social and political issues. This paper presents a comprehensive synthesis of research, policy analysis, and practice-based case studies to reimagine civic education for the 21st century. Drawing on core scholarship supplemented with additional peer-reviewed studies on school segregation, charter school demographics, and race-conscious student assignment policies, the study examines the historical evolution of civic education, structural inequities, political avoidance, and promising innovations. Using a qualitative synthesis approach, the findings highlight five thematic areas: structural inequities, curricular misalignment, sanitized narratives, limits of …

Becoming Again: Dialogues On Identity Formation Among Second-Career Educators In Initial Certification Programs, Michelle White, Tracy Driehaus, Mark Wolfmeyer

Education Faculty Research

No abstract provided.

Nebraska Transcript (University Of Nebraska College Of Law), Fall 2025

Nebraska Transcript

Dean’s message

Nebraska Law students achieve outstanding results in competitions

Nebraska Law recognized for excellence in mental health and well-being

Clifton, ’08, honored as 2025 Alumni Master

Uecker, ’25, selected as a 2025 Next Generation Leader

Unexpected path to Nebraska Law leads Haratsis, ’25, to home, calling

Client Counseling program celebrates 50 years

Big Ten law schools present series of panel discussions on rule of law

A reflection of the past six years, College’s strategic plan now complete

A culture of strengths: CliftonStrengths and the College of Law

Celebrating 50 years of Ross McCollum Hall

Johnson studies how election law …

Hire And Hope: An Exploration Of Principal Turnover, Jessica D. True

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

This study is designed to investigate the possible relationships between principal turnover within K-12 public schools in the State of Texas, and demographic characteristics of school location, principal’s ethnicity, principal’s gender, and principal’s level of post-secondary degree. Data for participating schools was gathered from state-reported educator information specifically for the 2018/2019, 2019/2020, 2020/2021, 2021/2022, 2022/2023, and 2023/2024 school years. The longitudinal study reviewed K-12 non-charter public schools in Education Service Center (ESC) 11, which encompasses all public schools in the Fort Worth metroplex of North Texas, allowing this study to analyze a robust and inclusive dataset. The Chi-Square Test of …