Educational Leadership Commons^™

Department Chair And Faculty Perceptions Of Organizational Communication In The Post Covid-19 Era, Gabriele Cafone Zengewald

Seton Hall University Dissertations and Theses (ETDs)

The purpose of this qualitative case study was to understand the perceptions and experiences of department chairs and full-time faculty with organizational communication during a time of organizational transition post COVID-19. Utilizing the conceptual framework of communication satisfaction developed by Downs and Hazen (1977), the study used semi-structured interviews and a thematic analysis of pandemic communications. Findings indicated that engagement, transparency, and clarity were essential in creating positive perceptions of communication with department chairs playing a critical role between upper-level administration and faculty. Facutly noted greater trust and satisfaction when communication allowed for two-way dialogue and was delivered through clear …

The Reality Of Restorative: The Impact On Discipline Disparities In A Large Urban School District, Eboni Williams, Karen H. Larwin Phd

Journal of Organizational & Educational Leadership

Disparities in exclusionary discipline rates persist for African American students, who often receive harsher punishments than their White peers, especially for subjective offenses. Implicit bias contributes to perceptions of African American children as older, less innocent, and more deserving of severe discipline (Gilliam et al., 2016; Lewis & Diamond, 2015; Welsh & Little, 2018). Excessive discipline correlates with negative long-term outcomes, including higher dropout rates and incarceration (Skiba et al., 2014). This study evaluates the impact of restorative justice in reducing these disparities in a large urban district. While general linear modeling indicated significant suspension rate changes for grades 9-12 …

Sustainability Leadership In Schools: A Success Case Method, Sohail M. Sukhera, Christopher R. Gordon, William L. Sterrett

Journal of Organizational & Educational Leadership

Environmental unpredictability has become a crisis for the 21st century. In response, organizations from the local to international level are addressing the issues by creating, supporting, and promoting initiatives. Schools and school leaders play an important role in this work. An example of a multi-scaled initiative is the U.S. Department of Education’s Green Ribbon Schools (ED-GRS) which recognizes local academic institutions, upon state recommendation, that have implemented three pillars of sustainability: (a) reduce environmental impacts and costs; (b) improve the health and wellness of schools, students, and staff; and (c) provide effective environmental and sustainability education. This evaluation analyzed ED-GRS …

The Ecology Of Practices: Perspectives Of Female Principals Leading Rural Schools In Zimbabwe, Precious Guramatunhu Mudiwa

Journal of Organizational & Educational Leadership

This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of five female principals leading rural schools in Zimbabwe. Using a qualitative approach through face-to-face interviews and employing the ecology of practices framework (Stengers, 2005) to address environmental challenges in rural schools, the findings illustrate the multidimensional challenges faced by female school leaders in rural settings, that include infrastructural deficiencies, chronic academic underperformance, poor teacher working conditions, absenteeism, funding shortages, and gender bias. Despite these difficulties, principals demonstrated resilience through strategic leadership, community collaboration, and faith-based coping mechanisms. These insights contribute to a broader understanding of the intersection of gender and educational …

Perceptions Of Principal Leadership, Teacher Leadership, Student Discipline, And Teacher Retention Based On Evaas Growth Status And School Performance Grade In Low-Performing Elementary Schools In North Carolina, Shayla Savage, Sijia Zhang

Journal of Organizational & Educational Leadership

This quantitative study investigated whether teachers’ perceptions on principal leadership, teacher leadership, student discipline, and teacher retention exhibited significant differences based on two school conditions: school growth status and school performance grade in low-performing elementary schools across North Carolina. The study analyzed responses from 11,018 certified teachers across 293 qualified schools. A 2x2 factorial MANOVA revealed statistically significant differences in teacher leadership and teacher retention related to school performance grade and its interaction with the school growth status. However, no significant differences were found regarding the principal leadership and student discipline domains. Findings highlighted the importance of supporting teacher leadership …

The Role And Influence Of Faculty As Predictors For Retention And Satisfaction Among Generation Z, Katelyn Romsa, Stephani Jarecke, Jessie H. Hendricks, Bryan Romsa

Journal on Empowering Teaching Excellence

Access the online Pressbooks version of this introduction here.

While previous research has established that faculty and their interactions with students have had the greatest impact on student retention and satisfaction for centuries, limited studies have been done to understand how faculty are influencing Generation Z, our newest generation of students in higher education. This study examined how the quantity of faculty interactions is impacting student retention and satisfaction among 342 Generation Z first-year college students at a public land-grant institution in the Midwest using the National Survey of Student Engagement instrument. In a Mann-Whitney U test, significant difference was …

Perceptions Of High School Students Of Anxiety As An Impact Of The Emsat Exam In The United Arab Emirates, Ameirah Hassan Aal Mohamed

Thesis/ Dissertation Defenses

The Emirates Standardized Test (EmSAT) exam, introduced in 2017, is a key national standardized test in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) that is considered a major criterion for admission to higher education institutions. As such, the EmSAT exam can create significant pressure on students due to its role in determining future educational opportunities. The purpose of this study is to investigate how the UAE standardized EmSAT exams impact high school students’ anxiety from the students ' perspectives. The study employed a phenomenological qualitative study to collect and analyze data from grade 12 students. The research was framed by Spielberger’s Trait-State …

Using Iready To Support Math Intervention After The Covid-19 Pandemic, Marvin Prather

Dissertations

The purpose of this study is to research the use of iReady for assisting in growing MAP RIT scores at STEAM Elementary School. This study will use quantitative methods. An ex post facto research design will be used with a causal-comparative approach, which means that a study will investigate potential cause-and-effect relationships between variables by examining existing groups or conditions that have already occurred, without actively manipulating any factors, essentially looking at “after the fact” to see if differences between groups can be linked to a potential causal variable The study examined the effect of the i-Ready Math program on …

Call For Manuscripts, Michele J. Koomen, Thomastine Sarchet-Maher, Jessica Williams

Journal of Science Education for Students with Disabilities

No abstract provided.

Call For Manuscripts, Michele J. Koomen, Thomastine Sarchet-Maher, Jessica Williams

Journal of Science Education for Students with Disabilities

No abstract provided.

Leading Factors Positively Impacting Teacher Job Satisfaction, Abby M. Smith Ms.

Graduate Teacher Education

Abstract

This paper examined the issue of declining teacher job satisfaction and its role in the growing national teacher shortage. The purpose was to identify the leading factors that positively influenced teacher job satisfaction and to explore how these elements supported retention, enhanced school performance, and improved student learning. This literature review combined 15 peer-reviewed studies from the past 17 years that included diverse international contexts with participants who varied by age, experience, and culture. The sources employed qualitative, quantitative, mixed-methods, and secondary data analyses to study intrinsic and extrinsic motivators on teacher satisfaction, burnout, and attrition. The findings indicated …

The Role Of Parental Involvement In Student Academic Achievement In Lutheran Schools, Andrew Strickland

Graduate Teacher Education

Parental involvement in academic achievement and faith formation are often studied, yet they are still necessary topics to understand the methods and means to involve parents. Shifts in social dynamics have led to a decline in parental involvement in schools, including declines in involvement in Lutheran schools. This research focused on examining the impact of parent involvement on academic achievement and explored the connection between parent involvement and faith formation in Lutheran schools. Parents' and educators' perceptions of involvement formed the first aspect of the review. Studies on school and parental perceptions examined differing views in preschool and adolescence. Research …

Secondary Principals’ And Teachers’ Perceptions Of The Role Of Principals In Supporting Teacher Engagement In Professional Development, E. Rachel Evans

Ed.D. Dissertations

This qualitative research study explored the perspectives of secondary principals and teachers in an East Tennessee School District regarding the influence of secondary principals’ instructional leadership behaviors on active teacher engagement in professional development. I used questionnaires and semi-structured interviews to collect data from 8 secondary principals and 30 secondary teachers at the top five performing schools based on the average professional development hours earned per teacher. In the study, I examined the instructional leadership behaviors of framing the school goals, communicating the school goals, incentivizing teachers and learning, and promoting professional development. Findings revealed an apparent disconnect between the …

Leading Elca Lutheran Colleges And Universities: Lutheranism, Purpose, And Alignment, Ian K. Mcmichael

Doctorate in Education

The colleges and universities affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) occupy a unique space within the higher education market. To varying degrees, each school currently professes to be a school of the “third path” between sectarian dogmatism and secular relativism. However, the mission of these schools has shifted dramatically since their founding and whether there is anything markedly different between them and secular liberal arts schools remains an open question. While research has addressed mission, values, and purpose in this context, what has not been extensively explored previously is the role the leaders of these institutions play …

Transforming Criminal Justice Leadership With A Servant-Oriented Trauma-Informed Approach, Janina Cich

Forensic Scholars Today

This paper explores the transformative potential of a criminal justice leadership model by integrating principles of servant leadership, emotional intelligence, and trauma-informed care, focusing on rebuilding community trust, improving officer well-being, and fostering equitable, empathetic public service. This transformative module emphasizes humility, accountability, and emotional awareness to address the deep-rooted effects of trauma on both criminal justice personnel and the communities they serve. Through proactive strategies, such as open communication, cultural competence training, and mental health support, future leaders can cultivate resilient, community-focused agencies prioritizing healing, justice, and human dignity.

From The Editors, Michele J. Koomen, Thomastine Sarchet-Maher, Jessica Williams

Journal of Science Education for Students with Disabilities

JSESD remains a venue for the dissemination of research and practice related to the education of students with disabilities in the science classroom and laboratory since 1998. Volumes #1 through 11 were published in a print format. Starting with Volume #12, the journal has been published online and Open Access. Having JSESD in the Open Access format maximizes access for readers and authors and allows the journal to remain economically sustainable.

Copyright, Michele J. Koomen, Thomastine Sarchet-Maher, Jessica Williams

Journal of Science Education for Students with Disabilities

No abstract provided.

Investigating Teachers’ Perspectives On The Practices Of Public-School Inspections In The United Arab Emirates, Ruqaia Adel Haidara

Thesis/ Dissertation Defenses

This research paper investigates public school teachers’ perceptions of the effectiveness of school inspections in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Additionally, it examines the impact of teachers’ demographic factors on these perceptions. Data were collected using an online, structured, five-point Likert-scale survey distributed via email to teachers in UAE public schools by the Emirates Schools Establishment (ESE). A total of 218 teachers across the UAE participated in this study. The research focused on four key domains within the School Inspection Perception Framework (SIPF): Perceived Effectiveness of School Inspections (PESI), Perceived Effectiveness of School Inspection Training (PESIT), Perceived Credibility of School …

Entry-Level Physical Therapists’ Perceptions Of Initial Employment, Richard G. Hubler Jr.

Seton Hall University Dissertations and Theses (ETDs)

As physical therapy (PT) grows as an autonomous profession within the ever-changing healthcare system of the United States, PT educators strive to provide students all the training that they require for a career in professional clinical practice. Although graduates of PT education programs receive a doctoral degree, their preparedness to succeed in their early career is unclear. The purpose of this qualitative research study is to investigate the perceptions of entry-level physical therapists (PTs) toward early professional practice and their initial employment choices. Entry-level PTs that have been employed full-time for one year or less were interviewed to gain an …

Perceptions Of Character And Leadership Development In High School Athletes, Jonathan M. Heeren

Doctorate in Education

The impact of sports on American society cannot be understated. High school athletics is considered a unique representation of the school and, often, the community. High school sports have long been used to serve several purposes. In addition to promoting physical health and competitive spirit, one purpose of sports is to develop the overall character of the athletes who participate, including leadership. With over 8.5 million students (National Federation of High Schools [NFHS], 2023) participating annually, there exists opportunities within an ideal environment in which to develop leadership. Coaches are tasked not only with teaching the fundamentals of their particular …

Leading Through Change: Building Resilient And Adaptive School Teams, Ashlee Boothe

The Journal of Advancing Education Practice

This reflective essay examines the vital role of resilience, adaptability, and vision for school leaders experiencing change during unstable times. By fostering these qualities during stable periods, school leaders can effectively prepare for upcoming challenges, such as budget constraints, irate parents, and unexpected crises. Using the example of school closures during COVID-19, the reflection highlights how resilient leadership and a clear vision enable school leaders to make informed, strategic decisions. Fostering resilience, providing staff autonomy, and articulating a shared vision are key to ensuring schools can handle challenges and achieve meaningful change. This paper argues that now is the time …

Thriving Through Change: Strategies For Building Resilience And Adaptability In Organizations, Anitha Peddireddy

The Journal of Advancing Education Practice

In the evolving landscape of education and organizational development, resilience and adaptability are increasingly recognized as critical competencies for fostering individual and institutional success. This reflective essay examines the intersection of these traits within the context of leadership, teaching, and learning environments. Using both scholarly research and professional experience, the article explores how educators and administrators can respond effectively to disruptions such as technological change, workplace stress, and diversity challenges. Key strategies include cultivating a growth mindset, enhancing emotional intelligence, promoting inclusive practices, and leveraging data-informed decision-making. The paper further emphasizes the role of educational leadership in creating psychologically safe, …

Leveraging Ownership To Prosper From Failure, Rodney G. Thomas

All-Inclusive List of Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this qualitative study was to gain an understanding of the phenomenon of leveraging ownership to prosper from a failure experience through the lenses of principals who have experienced a situation where they failed. Research questions included the perception of the determining aspects, how ownership manifested as a coping method, the belief in leveraging ownership to improve outcomes, and what principals can learn about themselves when finding success after failing. Principals matching the criteria of working in Indiana and Michigan and having a failure experience were chosen for this research study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with the principals …

Challenges Of The Novice Elementary Principal: A Framework For Elementary Principal Onboarding, Casey Stansifer

All-Inclusive List of Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this qualitative, multisite phenomenological study has two main foci. First, the study seeks to understand the unanticipated pain points each participant felt in the first two years of his or her principalship. The study inquires not into what the novice principals thought would hurt prior to their first two years on the job, but rather what they could not see coming even after having spent a considerable amount of time focusing on the principalship in their principal preparation programs. Second, the study seeks to understand what supports would be helpful to the novice principal in addressing these …

An Examination Of The Relationship Between School Counselors' Use Of Time, Student Perceptions Of School Counselors, And Students' College, Career, And Life Readiness In Indiana Schools, Kelly H. Dunn

All-Inclusive List of Electronic Theses and Dissertations

School counselors play a vital role in supporting students' academic, career, social, and emotional development. Research shows that when school counselors dedicate more time to direct interactions with students, outcomes improve in areas such as graduation rates, disciplinary incidents, grade retention, and postsecondary enrollment (Carey et al., 2012; Chaney, 2023). However, many counselors face barriers to direct engagement due to non-counseling tasks, which limit their ability to provide the personalized support that students value. The American School Counselor Association (ASCA) National Model (ASCA, 2019b), a widely adopted framework for organizing school counseling programs, recommends that no more than 20% of …

Exploring The Efficacy Of The Comprehensive Institutional Model (Cim) In A Post-Covid-19 Hyflex Higher Education Environment: An Instrumental Case, Pamela Mccray

Theses & Dissertations

This instrumental case study examined the efficacy of the comprehensive institutional model, a pre-existing conceptual framework addressing the challenges of HyFlex teaching and learning in the post-COVID-19 environment at one private university in South Texas. The model was constructed using longitudinal data from a two-year pilot study (2021-2023) and focused on improving teaching effectiveness, investing in instructional technology and infrastructure, supporting graduate students’ academic needs, and executing institutional sustainability actions across three stakeholder groups: administrators, faculty, and graduate students. The study also addressed key gaps in the literature, including the lack of tested HyFlex models in real-world settings. A qualitative, …

Cracking The Gender Code: Quantitative Insights Into Women's Code-Switching Strategies In K-12 Educational Leadership, Morgan Walker

All-Inclusive List of Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Women in K–12 education find themselves in the majority in the classroom but in the minority in administration positions. Social conditioning has led many to believe that men's characteristics more naturally align with strong leadership. Because of this discrepancy, women find the need to act in an inauthentic way to be perceived as more confident and capable leaders. Code-switching is defined as a transactional social tool utilized in instances of an imbalance of power and in the development of relations and practices that help members of a subordinate group cope with or resist the condition of subordination (Heller, 2020). This …

Position Utilization And Leadership Of Senior Woman Administrators In The Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference, Mattie J. Schimenz

Leadership Education Capstones

This study investigates the utilization and impact of the Senior Woman Administrator (SWA) position within the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC), focusing on job satisfaction and career confidence. Historically, women led collegiate women’s sports, but with the consolidation of men’s and women’s athletics under a single governance structure, female representation in leadership declined. While women make up 44% of NCAA athletes, only 27.2% of athletic directors are women (Statista, n.d.). The SWA role was created to ensure women have a voice in athletic department decision-making. This mixed-methods study explores whether the SWA role is fulfilling its original purpose of promoting …

Re-Analysis Of The Anthropogenic Effect Of The Covid-19 Global Lockdown On Night-Time Lunar Surface Temperatures, W. Schonberg, S. Haque

Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering Faculty Research & Creative Works

A study by Durga Prasad and Ambily observed an anomalous decrease in the lunar surface temperatures during the period April–May 2020, which they then attributed to the anthropogenic effects of the COVID-19 global lockdown effect. We have re-examined their data and while the anomalous decrease in the lunar surface temperature during April–May 2020 appears in our analysis as well, so does another significant dip in early 2018. Furthermore, the decline to the minimum observed during April–May 2020 is seen to begin in 2019, that is, quite some time before the COVID-19 event that led to the global lockdown and the …

Exploring Contributions Of Partnerships Between Employers And Disability Organizations On Recruitment, Hiring, Training, Retention, And Accommodation Of Individuals With Disabilities In Mississippi, Peter Oluwadare Kalejaiye

Dissertations

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 provides equal employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities (IWDs) by prohibiting discrimination in employment. However, one out of four IWDs face discrimination in employment in the United States (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023). Additionally, despite establishing the Office of Disability Employment Policy and enacting the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to help integrate IWDs into the workforce, IWDs face barriers to equal and equitable employment (NASEM, 2017). Previous studies recommend partnerships between employers and disability organizations (DOs) to provide employment opportunities and benefits for IWDs through recruitment, hiring, training, retention, and …