Navigating the Unknown: Principals' Leadership Responses During COVID-19

• In Event: Leading in the Time of COVID-19: Navigating the Unknown

Abstract

The work of school principals is filled with unanticipated interactions and events. This has perhaps never been more evident since March of 2020, when states, districts, and schools were tasked with transitioning to distance learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic. To better understand how principals responded to and led during this uncertainty, I conducted 40 interviews with 20 traditional public school principals in the U.S. state of New Jersey. Findings show during this time of uncertainty principals prioritized being accessible and visible to all stakeholders, actively communicated with stakeholders, and took a more active leadership role than during more certain times. Implications for policy and practice are discussed.

Author

• David B. Reid, Seton Hall University