Preparing School Principals: How Leadership Qualities Have Evolved Based on the Educational Landscape
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Authors
Murphy , Kathleen
Date
2023-05
Type
Dissertation
Language
en
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
ABSTRACT
An abstract of the dissertation of Kathleen Murphy for the degree of Doctor of Education
in Learning, Leadership and Community
Presented on: March 7, 2023
Title: Preparing School Principals: How Leadership Qualities Have Evolved Based on the
Educational Landscape
Abstract Approved:
____________________________________________________________
Name: Dr. Annette Holba
Dissertation Chair
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to determine if the changing needs in the
landscape of public schools necessitate a change in the preparation of school leaders. The
researcher sought to impact programs that prepare and support school principals, in the
state of New Hampshire, by gaining an understanding of the critical skills and qualities
needed today to lead schools effectively. The research was conducted with active public-
school principals who have been in the field for at least five years in the state of New
Hampshire. A multiple case-study format was utilized by the researcher and included
document reviews and semi-structured interviews. Analysis by the researcher involved
coding data for themes, individually and across cases. Major themes that emerged from
the semi-structured interviews included responding to adult and student mental health
needs, building relationships with stakeholders, and a lack of preparedness to tackle all
the responsibilities of the role. The researcher also analyzed the school principal
preparation programs attended by the participants and determined that limited if any
coursework presently exists in understanding external influences on the role of the school
principal and responding to student and staff mental health needs. The researcher used the
findings to suggest that a greater emphasis should be placed on coursework and training
that focuses on responding to student and staff mental health needs and external factors
that can better prepare a principal to lead more effectively in the 21st century environment.