Challenges of Novice Principals in an Ethnic-Minority Education

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Abstract

This paper discusses challenges facing novice principals (hereinafter: NPs) and the coping strategies they develop at the inception of their managerial careers. Qualitative research employed semi-structured interviews with 40 principals in the Arab education system in Israel. Findings indicated that Arab NPs face conflicting demands of their communities and the state, especially demands of recent government reforms. The sharp transition from teaching to administration is beset by challenges, engendering anxiety. The new role is complex involving immense responsibility, they need to alter their role perception, and struggle to create an organizational culture complying with their vision. Cultural blocks face female NPs since principalship is traditionally an exclusively male role, attributed much respect and power in patriarchal Arab society.

Authors

• Khalid Arar, Kibbutzim College

• Eman Arar

• Nasreen Haj Yahia, Sakhnin College of Teacher Education

• Gulnur Ak Küçükçayır, independent researcher