Special education administration in North Carolina: who is leading the field?
- UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
- Alicia Salemme Tate (Creator)
- Institution
- The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
- Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
- Advisor
- Marilyn Friend
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to survey special education administrators (N = 108) in North Carolina to identify their characteristics and factors that contribute to their staying or leaving the field. Variables included licensure, teaching experience, LEA information, and personal demographics as well as factors that would contribute to remaining or leaving the field of special education administration. Two open-ended questions addressed the least and most satisfying aspects of this role and important characteristics and knowledge needed to be effective. The majority of North Carolina special education administrators were female, Caucasian, and former special education teachers. Job satisfaction was ranked as the most significant factor for remaining in the field whereas lack of administrative support was ranked as the most significant factor for leaving. The least satisfying aspects of the job included lack of program funding, legally-related compliance issues, and communication issues. The most satisfying aspects included making a difference in the lives of students with disabilities and collaboration with colleagues and community. Knowledge noted as necessary for success in the field were knowledge of special education methodology and law as well as administrative/leadership skills.
The findings of the study inform the growing issue of special education administrator attrition and assist state and local leaders as they recruit and retain current special education administrators to lead the delivery of special education.
Special education administration in North Carolina: who is leading the field?
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Created on 12/1/2009
Views: 3540
Additional Information
- Publication
- Dissertation
- Language: English
- Date: 2009
- Keywords
- Education leadership, Special education
- Subjects
- Educational leadership $z North Carolina.
- Special education $z North Carolina $x Administration.
- Employee retention.
- School management and organization $z North Carolina.