Crucial to Lead Schools to Cultivate Flourishing Communities

• In Event: Changing Values, Practices, and Perspectives in Moral Education

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to discover and describe the best leadership practices to lead schools to implement character education approach in U.S. schools. Through a qualitative research, in specific a narrative inquiry, the inquiry was based on what successful school leaders think are the best leadership practices when implementing character education programs effectively. The participants were K-12th schools with specific characteristics. The study concluded that school leaders must apply the crucial to lead and that school principal’s leadership is the key component, and it should be collaborative to transform the community within its socio-cultural context. The school principal as the main gardener intentionally leads the school to cultivate character education toward a more just and flourishing community.

Author

• Maricarmen Esper, Mexican American Catholic College