Leadership lessons from coaches and principals

UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Jennifer Reed (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
Advisor
Ulrich Reitzug

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to learn about athletic coaches’ and principals’ visions, beliefs, philosophies, and wisdom, as well as to examine what I, as a principal transforming a low performing school, could learn from them. I conducted in-depth interviews with six coaches and six principals and observed two principals. During my observations, I focused on collecting data that pertained to philosophies and beliefs, vision, and wisdom of their work. I was also a participant in my study, keeping a personal journey of my work and how the interviews and observations were impacting that work. The participants’ data showed common themes that reflect items to which successful coaches and principals attend. Themes included the importance of communication; a philosophy of “kids first”; and a focus on modeling, leading, and teaching. Additionally, a theme from the principals was the importance of relationships. Coaches regularly cited the necessity of accountability. The study concludes with lessons for principals and recommendation for future research.

Additional Information

Publication
Dissertation
Language: English
Date: 2016
Keywords
Athletic Coaches, Leadership, Lessons, Low Performing Schools, Principals, School Transformation
Subjects
Leadership
School principals
Coaches (Athletics)
Educational leadership
Elementary school principals
School improvement programs

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