Date of Award

Spring 5-13-2024

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Education (EdD)

Department

Educational Leadership

First Advisor

DR. CHERIE GAINES

Second Advisor

DR. GEORGE LAOO

Third Advisor

DR. CRISTY STARLING

Abstract

Abstract

Alternative schools were characterized by numerous risk factors that impacted

student learning, teacher retention, and access to essential resources. The

implementation of self-efficacy was crucial in tackling and successfully finishing

difficult tasks. Studies were scarce regarding the impact of school principals'

self-efficacy on their leadership behaviors when running an alternative school.

The purpose of this study was to investigate how principals perceived their

self-efficacy, which was influenced by their participation in principal preparation

programs in Georgia. Additionally, I examined the impact of self-efficacy on their

leadership behaviors, the risk factors associated with leading an alternative

school, and how principals conceptualized their leadership efficacy. The research

questions highlighted that the data on leadership training programs mostly

addressed collaboration, power sharing, connection development, communication,

flexibility, and process orientation. Similar to principals of regular schools,

principals of alternative school programs also benefitted from the unique support

provided by universities, colleges, and school districts. It was crucial to have

effective instructional involvement at all levels to develop a new curriculum

specifically designed for alternative school principals. This curriculum should be

characterized by increased communication between agencies, active engagement

by cohorts nationwide, and the establishment of trust. Such measures were

essential for increasing students' success in alternative schools. By persistently

examining and implementing approaches to engage administrators in alternative

school programs, we can enhance their ability to become accomplished alternative

school principals with elevated self-efficacy.

Keywords

ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION, LEADERSHIP, SECONDARY EDUCATION, HIGH SCHOOLS, PRINCIPAL PREPARATION PROGRAMS

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