The Charter School Principal: Inside Perspectives

Session Type: Symposium

Abstract

Addressing calls to investigate educational practices implemented inside charter schools, this symposium includes presentations of four qualitative research studies that examine how principal leadership was enacted within charter schools. The presenters will discuss principal leadership practices that occurred in charters schools in various state contexts and governance structures such as start-up and taking over charter schools. Specific practices such as shepherding the mission and vision, hiring, and leadership succession practices will be highlighted. The session will conclude with a discussion among the participants and audience related to how the principal practices presented support innovation in public education, advance educating diverse student populations within public education, and guide future directions for charter principal leadership research.

Sub Unit

• SIG-Charters & School Choice

Chair

• Marytza Anne Gawlik, Florida State University

Papers

• Turning Vision Into Reality: Leadership Skills for Charter School Leaders - Marisa A. Cannata, Vanderbilt University; Grant Thomas, OneGoal; Zaia Thombre, Principal's Leadership Academy of Nashville

• A Principal Change in an Existing Charter School: What Happens to Mission and Vision? - Dana L. Bickmore, University of Neveda Las Vegas

• Competing for Teachers in New Orleans: Charter School Leaders' Recruitment and Retention Strategies - Huriya Jabbar, The University of Texas - Austin

• Principalship Succession and Socialization in Charter Schools - Marytza Anne Gawlik, Florida State University

Discussant

• Dana L. Bickmore, University of Neveda Las Vegas