This study investigates how the role of the reading specialist (RS) is defined and communicated by principals, and examines to what degree a common understanding of this role exists among teachers, building administrators and reading specialists. The principal's responsibility in defining and communicating role, and the effect these efforts have…

In this single case study of a school and university collaborative project, positioning theory was used to deconstruct the metaphors expressed in descriptions of roles of 23 participants. Present in the metaphors were discrepancies in understandings of collaboration that revealed ways that collaboration was inhibited as participants positioned…

In an ideal school, where inclusion is implemented successfully, staff members collaborate and create an inclusive environment in their schools. In order to achieve such a sustainable environment of inclusion, pedagogical, organisational and psychological restructuring should occur, and a strong inclusion-oriented leadership has to be activated.…

Educational diagnosticians in the state of Texas serve multiple roles across various districts (National Clearinghouse for Professions in Special Education [NCPSE], 2011). Due to the increased accountability requirements in the area of special education, much more time is required to complete the procedural requirements set forth by state and…

This descriptive qualitative case study explored the changing role of the reading specialist through various perceptions of professionals in the Neon Shadow School District. The purpose of the study was to explore what, how, and why the duties and responsibilities of the reading specialist have changed since first employed as an…

This embedded multiple-case study addressed the lack of qualitative research on the contributions of principal leadership behaviors and organizational routines in Montana's distinguished Title I schools. This study was guided by the research question, "How do principal leadership behaviors and organizational routines contribute to the high…

Based on the researcher's experience as a coordinator of special education, general and special education administrators are challenged with creating, implementing, and supervising special education services addressing the diverse needs of students with disabilities in the general education setting. The researcher has collaborated with…

This qualitative case study reports and interprets school principals' perceptions of their role in implementing and sustaining Second Step, a social skills development programme. The study compares schools that implemented the programme as a formalised strategy for all teachers and those that did not. The results suggest that the key features of…

Technology, one of the important factors that influence success in schools, should be planned and used effectively in schools. Technology planning is significant because it gives information about the current situation and of the target future goals as well as because the present technology should be used effectively. This study focuses on the…

According to a study of 20 outstanding principals, administrators valued as instructional leaders value their role as staff developers, view their key function as facilitator, and are driven by a clear vision for the school. These principals view themselves as role models for continual growth, are self-assured, and open to change. (eight…

In a study investigating principals' career life cycles, five urban secondary principals were interviewed. When analyzing interviewees' perceptions of their leadership, different role perceptions emerged that appeared to be influenced by length of time in service. Experience may lead to a lessening of creative tension via intrusion of current…

Investigates perceptions of English headteachers and U.S. principals about crossing the professional "border" into school leadership. Using interview data, explores administrators' preparation for their new role and levels of professional support they received during induction. All went through "culture shock" while adjusting…

Suggests that a most crucial and complex priority is the need for the head of schools to come to terms with his or her own personal needs, especially as related to feelings about authority. Coming to terms with oneself in relation to leadership roles is never-ending process of self-examination. (Author/AM)

Notes that the position of head of a school is crucial at the beginning when children go to a school because the whole tone of the school is set by the attitude of the head. The way the head thinks affects the children and the staff and the staff's attitude to the children. (Author/AM)

Suggests that even though some argue that there is not much that can be done inside the school if the conditions outside are working against it, a situation of tolerance, humanity, compassion, and challenge can be created in schools. Only the educator has the opportunity to make life good in school. (Author/AM)