A Descriptive Analysis of High-Need Districts' Inequitable Access to Quality HR Systems

• In Event: Organizational Effects Related to Discipline, Safety, and Equity

Abstract

This study draws from SHRM literature to apply an HR systems typology to categorize school districts based on their personnel policies, and descriptively examines whether types of HR systems are related to district demographics and outcomes. Data were collected from a comprehensive review of sample district’s websites, personnel handbooks, board policies, and conversations with HR directors/management. Qualitative data were quantified according to a standardized scoring rubric and districts were categorized into different HR systems. The study provides partial support for SHRM theory since districts with Strategic Developmental HRM systems experienced higher student achievement, lower student-to-teacher ratios, higher teacher retention, and fewer teacher vacancies than districts with all other HRM typologies. These districts were less likely to be high needs districts.

Authors

• Henry Tran, University of South Carolina, Columbia

• David Garland Buckman, Kennesaw State University