Illinois Superintendent Leadership of Nontraditional Teacher Pay: A Qualitative Inquiry of Moral Purpose

• In Event: The World of the Superintendent

Abstract

This qualitative inquiry explored how superintendents serving Illinois public school districts utilizing nontraditional teacher pay (NTTP) conceptualize and execute moral purpose in their work. Theoretical/conceptual frameworks predicted student-centered NTTP administration and preservation of resources following economic recession, a process aligning with leadership standards and ethical lenses. Six superintendents were purposefully selected for structured, open-ended interviews; reflective journaling; and artifact analysis. Thematically-analyzed data revealed moral purpose as service to students and larger contexts – communities, nation, and society – influenced by beliefs, values, and life experience. This informs multiple aspects of superintendent decision-making, including NTTP – the latter by notions of equity and resource repurposing. Findings support theoretical predictions, articulate with additional leadership standards, and provide implications for further superintendent research, preparation, and practice.

Author

• Nathan S. Schilling, Lansing School District 158