Learning From Outliers: Understanding Post-Pandemic Success in Resiliency Schools

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Sunday 9:50 am Four Seasons Ballroom 2-3
  In Roundtable Session: Responding to Upheaval With a Focus on Sustaining Improvement Over Time (Table 9)

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted education systems, resulting in varied levels of learning loss across schools. This study investigated mechanisms by which schools in challenging environments, particularly in Alabama, avoided or mitigated learning loss. The study examined factors associated with school recovery and characteristics of schools that outperformed expectations. Employing an explanatory sequential mixed methods design, Phase 1 involved quantitative analysis to identify schools performing higher than expected, while Phase 2 involved qualitative fieldwork in the schools. Findings revealed that school personnel, strong school culture embedded in the community, and supportive leadership were crucial in fostering resilience and academic recovery during the pandemic.

Authors

• David T. Marshall, Auburn University

• Andrew Pendola, Auburn University

• Tim Pressley, Christopher Newport University