Date of Award

Fall 12-2012

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Educational Leadership and School Counseling

Committee Chair

David Lee

Committee Chair Department

Educational Leadership and School Counseling

Committee Member 2

Myron Labat

Committee Member 2 Department

Educational Leadership and School Counseling

Committee Member 3

James Johnson

Committee Member 3 Department

Educational Studies and Research

Committee Member 4

Rose McNeese

Committee Member 4 Department

Educational Leadership and School Counseling

Abstract

Principals who are presiding over schools that have received a blue ribbon certification have evidently used specific professional and personal strategies, as well as behaviors, to enhance the academic and social culture of their schools. The current study examined Mississippi Gulf Coast Schools that received blue ribbon status in the last six years. A survey of administrators, teachers, and staff members was conducted.

The research confirmed that a correlation exists between personal and professional behaviors of the principals who have presided over Blue Ribbon Certified Schools and teacher morale. These principal behaviors are deemed instrumental in the building of a progressive school culture that reflects high expectations, teamwork, teacher/principal collaboration, trust, respect, and student scholar achievement. The empirical data suggests that principals must maintain positive and respectful relationships with teachers and staff members to create and build upon a school culture that is not only steeped in high expectations, but also reflects tremendous respect for teacher input and collaboration. Ultimately, these principal traits and behaviors culminated in student success and the receipt of Blue Ribbon Certification.

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