Draw or Drain? Exploring Rural Principal Transfer and Attrition in Texas

• In Event: Applications of Emerging Research in Rural Education

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to explore patterns of ‘draw and drain’ in the rural principal labor market. Given their unique context, an increasing body of literature has recognized the difficulties in attracting and retaining quality school leaders in rural districts. We investigate two research questions: (1) what are the unique rural patterns of principal selection and turnover?, and (2) are rural principals pushed or pulled out? Results of a sample of over 20 thousand principals over 17 years in Texas demonstrate an overall trend of rural isomorphism with inter-district churn. We offer policy strategies and recommendations based on these trends.

Authors

• Andrew Pendola, Auburn University

• Ed Fuller, The Pennsylvania State University