Tensions Faced by Community School Leaders: A Systems Perspective

• In Event: 31.084 - Innovative Approaches to Systems Thinking: Negotiating Power and Reform

Abstract

This longitudinal comparative case study examined the roles of principals and community school coordinators in three well-established community schools over a period of three years. Informed by a conceptual framework based on systems theory, we found that school leaders faced challenges in resolving the tensions presented by complex authority structures and inconsistent funding. After explaining the results from our analyses of interview transcripts, time studies, and document reviews, we provide suggestions for supporting community school leaders in their work.

Authors

• Linda K. Mayger, The College of New Jersey

• Craig Dennis Hochbein, Lehigh University