Leading in Charter Schools: The Role of Leaders in Externally Managed and Stand-Alone Charter Schools

• In Event: Poster Session 4
  In Poster Session: Section 1: Leadership

Abstract

In recent years, scholars have turned their eye to charter schools, seeking to understand how leaders in this alternative structure for public schooling are approaching the leadership role and how the charter context itself might shape that work (Bickmore & Dowell, 2014; Carpenter & Peak, 2013). In standalone or independent charters, all the leadership responsibilities sit within the school itself, which can create a heavy load for leaders. Little is known, however, about the role of leaders in charters and, in particular, about how that role varies between standalone charters and those operated by management organizations (MOs). This paper compares how standalone and MO leaders perceive their roles and discusses potential implications for these differences.

Authors

• Chris Torres, Montclair State University

• Katrina E. Bulkley, Montclair State University

• Suzanne Schwarz McCotter, Montclair State University