Big Fish in Very Little Ponds: A Cross-Case Mini-Ethnographic Study of Utah Rural School Principals

• In Event: Roundtable Session 50
  In Roundtable Session: The Lifeworlds of Rural Educators

Abstract

The researcher presents a mini-ethnographic cross case study that sought to understand the lived experience of Utah rural school principals in how they met the new state policy standards of evaluation. It also sought to understand how rural principals navigate the isolation within a rural community and small education system. The two cases revealed a large difference even among rural schools as to the size of school and the number of teachers. The research also revealed that these principals, despite lacking formal professional development, are adaptive and resourceful in supporting their teachers and their own development. Feelings of isolation were not prevalent and both principals were tied closely to their school communities and the district.

Author

• Courtney Stewart, Utah State University